Accessory and control method thereof, storage medium and computer program product

Abstract

Relates to an accessory, a control method thereof, a storage medium and a computer program product. The accessory is attachable between the interchangeable lens and the imaging apparatus and includes a control unit for controlling the aperture unit using the diameter information, and acquiring first instruction information indicating control of the aperture unit, second instruction information indicating storage of the diameter information, and third instruction information indicating playback of the diameter information through a user operation. The control unit has at least one of a first storage mode for storing the diameter information at a first timing when the second instruction information is acquired and a second storage mode for storing the diameter information at a second timing different from the first timing. The control unit has at least one of a first playback mode in which the aperture unit is controlled using the diameter information at a third timing when the third instruction information is acquired, and a second playback mode in which the aperture unit is controlled using the diameter information at a different fourth timing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an accessory, a control method thereof, and a storage medium. Background Art

[0002] In a lens-interchangeable camera system, accessories attachable between a camera body and an interchangeable lens are generally used to expand functions. Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-47507 discloses an accessory that is attached between an interchangeable lens and a camera body and is configured to allow a user to store and playback a focus position.

[0003] The accessory disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-47507 does not have a diaphragm unit (aperture stop unit or diaphragm unit). In Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2023-47507, once the user operates the operation unit, storage and playback of the focus position are performed by storage and drive control. Summary of the invention

[0004] An accessory according to one aspect of the present disclosure is detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device. The accessory includes: an aperture unit configured to adjust the amount of light incident from the interchangeable lens; a communication unit configured to communicate with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device; a memory for storing diameter information of the aperture unit; and a control unit configured to: use the diameter information to control the aperture unit, and obtain, through a user's operation, first indication information for indicating control of the aperture unit, second indication information for indicating storage of the diameter information, and third indication information for indicating playback of the diameter information. The control unit has at least one of a first storage mode and a second storage mode, the first storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a first timing when the second indication information is obtained when the processor obtains the second indication information, and the second storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a second timing different from the first timing when the processor obtains the second indication information. The control unit has at least one of a first playback mode and a second playback mode. In the first playback mode, when the processor obtains the third indication information, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a third timing when the third indication information is obtained. In the second playback mode, when the processor obtains the third indication information, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a fourth timing different from the third timing. The control method of the accessory and the storage medium for storing a program for causing a computer to execute the control method also constitute another aspect of the present disclosure.

[0005] Further features of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an imaging system according to various embodiments.

[0007] Figure 2 The respective communication units in the camera body, the intermediate accessory, and the interchangeable lens in the respective embodiments are described.

[0008] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Examples of communication protocols implemented in the camera body, the intermediate accessory, and the interchangeable lens in each embodiment are described.

[0009] Figure 4A and Figure 4B is an appearance diagram of an intermediate component according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 5A The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the moving image shooting mode according to the first embodiment is described.

[0011] Figure 5B The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the moving image shooting mode according to the first embodiment is described.

[0012] Figure 5C and Figure 5D The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode according to the first embodiment has been described.

[0013] Figure 5E The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode according to the first embodiment is described.

[0014] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is an appearance diagram of an intermediate component according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Fig. 7A The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode according to the second embodiment is described.

[0016] Figure 7B and Figure 7C The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode according to the second embodiment is described. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Hereinafter, the term "unit" may refer to a software context, a hardware context, or a combination of software and hardware contexts. In the software context, the term "unit" refers to functionality, an application, a software module, a function, a routine, an instruction set, or a program that can be executed by a programmable processor (such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), or a specially designed programmable device or controller). The memory contains instructions or programs, wherein the instructions or programs, when executed by the CPU, cause the CPU to perform operations corresponding to the unit or function. In the hardware context, the term "unit" refers to a hardware element, circuit, assembly, physical structure, system, module, or subsystem. According to a specific embodiment, the term "unit" may include mechanical, optical, or electronic components, or any combination thereof. The term "unit" may include active (e.g., transistors) or passive (e.g., capacitors) components. The term "unit" may include a semiconductor device having a substrate and other material layers, wherein the other material layers have various conductivity concentrations. The term "unit" may include a CPU or a programmable processor that can execute a program stored in a memory to perform a specific function. The term "unit" may include a logic element (e.g., AND, OR) implemented by a transistor circuit or any other switching circuit. In a combination of software and hardware contexts, the term "unit" or "circuit" refers to any combination of software and hardware contexts as described above. In addition, the term "element," "assembly," "component," or "device" may also refer to a "circuit" that is integrated with or not integrated with a packaging material.

[0018] Now, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be given. Corresponding elements in the various drawings will be represented by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0019] First embodiment

[0020] Camera system configuration

[0021] Reference Figure 1 , a description will be given of a camera system (imaging system) 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 is a block diagram of a camera system 10. The camera system 10 includes an interchangeable lens 100, a camera body (imaging device) 200, and an intermediate accessory (accessory) 300 detachably mounted between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100. The camera body 200 can be used while the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 are attached to each other. In the present embodiment, the intermediate accessory 300 includes a single accessory, but may include a plurality of accessories.

[0022] In the present embodiment, communication is performed between the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300. The interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300 transmit control commands and data (information) via their respective communication circuits (communication units) 112, 208, and 302.

[0023] A description will now be given of the specific configurations of the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300. The interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 are mechanically and electrically connected via a mount 400. The mount 400 is shown as a schematic representation of a state in which a mount provided on the interchangeable lens 100 and a mount provided on the intermediate accessory 300 are combined together. The camera body 200 and the intermediate accessory 300 are mechanically and electrically connected via a mount 401. The mount 401 is shown as a schematic representation of a state in which a mount provided on the camera body 200 and a mount provided on the intermediate accessory 300 are combined together. Communication terminals are provided on mount faces of respective mounts provided on the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300. In a case in which the respective units are connected via the mounts, the corresponding communication terminals come into contact with each other, and communication is activated via the communication terminals.

[0024] The interchangeable lens 100 receives power from the camera body 200 via power terminals not shown provided on the mounts 400 and 401, and supplies power to various actuators and a lens microcomputer (lens microcomputer) 111 to be described later. The intermediate accessory 300 receives power from the camera body 200 via power terminals not shown provided on the mount 401, and supplies power to an accessory microcomputer (control unit (accessory microcomputer)) 301.

[0025] A description will now be given of the configuration of the interchangeable lens 100. The interchangeable lens 100 includes an imaging optical system. The imaging optical system includes, in order from the object side to the image side, a field lens 101, a zoom lens 102 configured to provide variable magnification, an aperture unit 114 configured to adjust the amount of light, an image stabilizing lens 103, and a focus lens 104 configured to provide focus adjustment.

[0026] The zoom lens 102 and the focus lens 104 are respectively held by lens holders 105 and 106. Stepping motors (M) 107 and 108 drive the lens holders 105 and 106 along the optical axis of the imaging optical system indicated by the dotted line in synchronization with the drive pulse. The image stabilization lens 103 reduces image blur caused by camera shake (hand-held shake) or the like by moving in a direction having a component perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging optical system.

[0027] The lens microcomputer 111 controls the operation of each component in the interchangeable lens 100. The lens microcomputer 111 receives a control command and a transmission request command transmitted from the camera body 200 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. The lens microcomputer 111 performs lens control corresponding to the control command, and transmits lens data corresponding to the transmission request command to the camera body 200 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. For example, the lens microcomputer 111 drives the stepping motors 107 and 108 by outputting a drive signal to the zoom drive circuit 119 and the focus drive circuit 120 in response to commands related to magnification and focus in the control command. Thus, a zoom process for controlling the magnification operation of the zoom lens 102 and an auto focus (AF) process for controlling the focus operation of the focus lens 104 can be performed.

[0028] The aperture unit 114 is an aperture stop unit having aperture blades 114a and 114b. The Hall element 115 detects the state (position) of the aperture blades 114a and 114b. The detection result of the Hall element 115 is input to the lens microcomputer 111 via the amplifier circuit 122 and the A / D conversion circuit 123. The lens microcomputer 111 outputs a drive signal to the aperture drive circuit 121 based on the input signal from the A / D conversion circuit 123 to drive the aperture actuator 113. Thus, the light amount operation of the aperture unit 114 is performed. The driving method of the aperture actuator 113 is not limited, and any known method can be used.

[0029] The lens microcomputer 111 drives an image stabilization actuator 126 such as a voice coil motor via an image stabilization drive circuit 125 based on vibration detected by a vibration sensor (such as a vibration gyro) not shown provided in the interchangeable lens 100. Thus, image stabilization processing for controlling the shift operation (image stabilization operation) of the image stabilization lens 103 is performed.

[0030] A description will now be given of the configuration of the intermediate accessory 300. The intermediate accessory 300 includes an accessory microcomputer 301 for controlling various members included in the intermediate accessory. The accessory microcomputer 301 receives a control command and a transmission request command transmitted from the camera body 200 via the accessory communication circuit 302. The accessory microcomputer 301 performs accessory control in response to the control command, or transmits a control command to the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302. Then, as a result of performing accessory control, or based on information received from the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302, a response corresponding to the transmission request command received from the camera body 200 is transmitted to the camera body 200. The accessory microcomputer 301 does not necessarily transmit the transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302 only in response to a communication request from the camera body 200. For example, in the case of operating an accessory operating ring (operating member) 310 (described later) or the like, a communication request is transmitted to the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302 as needed.

[0031] The intermediate accessory 300 also includes a manual ring operation ring (so-called electronic ring) 310 rotatable by a user and a ring rotation detector 311. The ring rotation detector 311 includes, for example, a photointerrupter that outputs a two-phase signal in response to the rotation of the manual aperture operation ring 310. The accessory microcomputer 301 can detect the rotation amount (including direction) of the manual aperture operation ring 310 using the two-phase signal.

[0032] In addition to the manual aperture operation ring 310, the intermediate accessory 300 includes an accessory operation unit 320 and an accessory memory 321. The accessory operation unit 320 includes, for example, a switch, a button, or a touch panel, and may include a plurality of operation members.

[0033] The accessory memory 321 is, for example, a nonvolatile memory. In the present embodiment, as described later, diameter information of the accessory aperture unit (aperture unit) 303 is stored. The diameter information stored in the accessory memory 321 can be played back at a predetermined timing. The diameter information may include information on the aperture drive amount of the accessory aperture unit 303. The diameter information may also include diameter information when the interchangeable lens 100 is opened.

[0034] In the present embodiment, the accessory microcomputer 301 can accept an aperture diameter (diameter information) storage operation or an aperture diameter playback operation from the user at the accessory operation unit 320, and store the diameter information in the accessory memory 321 by the user's storage operation. Since the accessory memory 321 is a nonvolatile memory, the storage state is maintained even if the camera body 200 is powered off. The storage operation or playback operation of the aperture diameter from the user can be realized by communication with the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100 without providing the operation member as described above. The intermediate accessory 300 also has an accessory notification unit 322 for notifying the user of information. The notification member of the accessory notification unit 322 may include, for example, a light emitting diode (LED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a speaker, a vibrator, etc. The accessory notification unit 322 may have a plurality of notification members. As described later, in the present embodiment, the accessory notification unit 322 is used to notify the user of the storage state and the playback state of the diameter information.

[0035] The intermediate accessory 300 also includes an accessory aperture unit (aperture unit) 303 configured to adjust the amount of light incident from the interchangeable lens 100. The accessory aperture unit 303 is an aperture stop unit having aperture blades 303a and 303b. A Hall element 305 detects the state (position) of the aperture blades 303a and 303b. The detection result of the Hall element 305 is input to the accessory microcomputer 301 via an amplifier circuit 306 and an A / D conversion circuit 307. The accessory microcomputer 301 outputs a drive signal to an aperture drive circuit 308 based on an input signal from the A / D conversion circuit 307 to drive the aperture actuator 304. Thus, light amount adjustment by the accessory aperture unit 303 is performed. The driving method of the aperture actuator 304 is not limited, and any known method can be used. This embodiment controls the accessory aperture unit 303 to operate in conjunction with the user's operation of the manual aperture operation ring 310, but the intermediate accessory 300 does not necessarily have to include the manual aperture operation ring 310. For example, manual aperture operation information may be transmitted from the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302 .

[0036] The intermediate accessory 300 may have a function of, for example, an extender configured to change the focal length, a wide-angle converter configured to change the focal length, or a mount converter configured to change the flange back length.

[0037] A description will now be given of the configuration of the camera body 200. The camera body 200 includes an image sensor 201 such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor, an A / D conversion circuit 202, a signal processing circuit 203, a recorder 204, a camera microcomputer (camera microcomputer) 205, and a display unit 206.

[0038] The image sensor 201 performs photoelectric conversion on the subject image formed by the imaging optical system in the interchangeable lens 100, and outputs an electric signal (analog signal). The A / D conversion circuit 202 converts the analog signal from the image sensor 201 into a digital signal. The signal processing circuit 203 performs various image processing on the digital signal from the A / D conversion circuit 202 to generate a video signal.

[0039] The signal processing circuit 203 also generates the contrast state of the subject image, that is, focus information related to the focus state of the imaging optical system and brightness information related to the exposure state from the video signal. The signal processing circuit 203 outputs the video signal to the display unit 206 for displaying the video signal as a live view image for checking the composition, focus state, etc.

[0040] The camera microcomputer 205 controls the camera body 200 according to inputs from the operation unit 207 such as an image pickup instruction switch and various setting switches. The camera microcomputer 205 transmits a control command and a transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the camera communication circuit 208, and receives lens data or accessory data from the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300. For example, the camera microcomputer 205 generates focus shift information in the signal processing circuit 203 based on information related to optical characteristics such as aperture diameter information received from the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the camera communication circuit 208. Then, based on the generated focus shift information, the camera microcomputer 205 generates focus information, and transmits a control command related to a focus operation to the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the camera microcomputer 205 transmits a transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 to obtain lens data related to a focus operation, and receives lens data related to a focus operation from the interchangeable lens 100.

[0041] Reference now Figure 2 , a description will be given of the communication unit of the camera body 200, the intermediate accessory 300, and the interchangeable lens 100. Figure 2 The lens communication circuit 112, the accessory communication circuit 302, and the camera communication circuit 208 are illustrated.

[0042] The mount 400 provided between the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 has various communication terminals. The interchangeable lens 100 has communication terminals (LCLK 1121, DCL 1122, DLC 1123, ATTACH 1124, POWER 1125). The intermediate accessory 300 has communication terminals (LCLK 3021, DCL 3022, DLC 3023, ATTACH 3024, POWER 3025). The intermediate accessory 300 can determine the attachment state of the interchangeable lens 100 through the ATTACH signal 3024 and supply power through the POWER 3025. Other communication terminals may be used for communication.

[0043] Similarly, various communication terminals are provided on the mount 401 arranged between the intermediate accessory 300 and the camera body 200. The intermediate accessory 300 has communication terminals (LCLK 3026, DCL 3027, DLC 3028, ATTACH 3029, POWER 3030). The camera body 200 has communication terminals (LCLK 2081, DCL 2082, DLC 2083, ATTACH 2084, POWER 2085). The camera body 200 can judge the attachment state of the intermediate accessory 300 through the ATTACH signal 2084 and supply power through the POWER 2085. Other communication terminals may be used for communication. The ATTACH signal 2084 is configured as a signal state in the attachment state while the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the intermediate accessory 300 (the ATTACH signal 3024 indicates the attachment state) and the intermediate accessory 300 is attached to the camera body 200.

[0044] Reference now Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C , a description will be given of an example of a communication method performed between the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 and between the intermediate accessory 300 and the camera body 200 using the respective terminals. Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C An example of a protocol for communication among the camera body 200 , the intermediate accessory 300 , and the interchangeable lens 100 has been described.

[0045] This communication is performed using a three-wire clock synchronous serial communication method, and is a communication method performed between a device serving as a main communication component that transmits a control command and a data transmission request command, and a device serving as a sub-communication component that transmits data in response to the data transmission request command. In the communication processing performed between the camera body 200 and the intermediate accessory 300, the camera communication circuit 208 serves as the main communication component, and the accessory communication circuit 302 serves as the sub-communication component. In the communication processing performed between the intermediate accessory 300 and the interchangeable lens 100, the accessory communication circuit 302 serves as the main communication component, and the lens communication circuit 112 serves as the sub-communication component.

[0046] The clock signal LCLK is mainly used as a data synchronization clock signal from the main communication component to the slave communication component. The communication signal DCL is used to transmit data such as control commands and data transmission request commands from the main communication component to the slave communication component. The data signal DLC is used to transmit data from the slave communication component to the main communication component.

[0047] The master communication component and the slave communication component communicate using a full-duplex communication method in which they transmit and receive data in synchronization with each other and simultaneously with a common clock signal LCLK.

[0048] Figure 3A The waveform of the communication signal of one frame as the minimum communication unit is shown. First, the main communication component transmits a clock signal LCLK with a group of eight-cycle pulses, and also transmits a communication signal DCL to the sub-communication component synchronously with the clock signal LCLK. At the same time, the main communication component receives the data signal DLC output from the sub-communication component synchronously with the clock signal LCLK. In this way, one byte (8 bits) of data is transmitted and received between the main communication component and the sub-communication component synchronously with a pair of clock signals LCLK. The period of transmitting and receiving one byte of data will be referred to as a data frame. After the data frame, a communication pause period is inserted by notifying the communication standby request information (hereinafter referred to as communication standby request) BUSY (busy) from the sub-communication component to the main communication component. The communication pause period will be referred to as a BUSY frame. The communication unit consisting of a group of data frames and BUSY frames will be referred to as a frame.

[0049] Figure 3B The waveform of the communication signal composed of three frames is shown, in which the main communication component transmits a command CMD1 to the sub-communication component and receives 2-byte data DT1a and DT1b in response to the command CMD1. Between the main communication component and the sub-communication component, the type and number of bytes of the data DT corresponding to each command CMD are predetermined.

[0050] In the first frame, the master communication component transmits the clock signal LCLK and transmits the command CMD1 corresponding to the data DT1a and DT1b requested to be transmitted as the communication signal DCL. The data signal DLC in this frame is regarded as invalid data.

[0051] Next, the main communication component outputs the clock signal LCLK in eight cycles, and then switches the communication terminal state on the main communication component side from the output format to the input format. After the secondary communication component has completed the switching of the communication terminal state on the main communication component side, the communication terminal state on the secondary communication component side is switched from the input format to the output format. The secondary communication component then sets the signal level of the clock signal LCLK to a low level (LOW) so as to notify the main communication component of the communication standby request BUSY. The main communication component maintains the communication terminal state in the input format during the notification of the communication standby request BUSY, and suspends the communication to the secondary communication component.

[0052] During the notification period of the communication standby request BUSY, the secondary communication component generates data DT1a corresponding to the command CMD1. After the transmission preparation of the next frame of the data signal DLC is completed, the secondary communication component sets the signal level of the clock signal LCLK to a high level (HIGH) to notify the main communication component that the communication standby request BUSY has been cleared. In the case where the main communication component recognizes that the communication standby request BUSY has been cleared, the main communication component receives data DT1a from the secondary communication component by sending a frame of the clock signal LCLK to the secondary communication component. Next, the main communication component similarly receives data DT1b.

[0053] Figure 3C It is shown that the main communication component transmits the command CMD2 to the sub-communication component to request the acquisition of communication data and DT2A, DT2B and DT2C are transmitted from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. Then, the interchangeable lens 100 transmits the corresponding 3-byte lens data DT2a, DT2b and DT2c to the camera body 200, and the waveform of the 4-frame communication signal is shown. In the first frame, the sub-communication component notifies the main communication component of the communication standby request BUSY, but in the second frame to the fourth frame, the sub-communication component does not notify the main communication component of the communication standby request BUSY. Therefore, the interval between frames can be reduced. On the other hand, in this communication method, the sub-communication component cannot notify the main communication component of the communication standby request BUSY. Therefore, it is necessary to create information to respond to the main communication component during the communication standby request BUSY after the command CMD2 received in the first frame, or to prepare information to respond to the main communication component before performing the communication.

[0054] Reference Figure 4A and Figure 4B, a description will be given of the appearance of the intermediate accessory 300 according to the present embodiment. Figure 4A and Figure 4B This is an appearance diagram of the intermediate component 300. Figure 4A The interior of the mount on the interchangeable lens 100 side is shown, and Figure 4B The interior of the mount on the camera body 200 side is shown.

[0055] The electronic ring 411 is a first operating member operable by the user, and corresponds to the manual aperture operation ring 310. The electronic ring 411 outputs first instruction information for instructing control of (operation and target position of) the accessory aperture unit 303 by user operation. The lens side communication terminal 402 corresponds to Figure 2 The camera side communication terminal 403 corresponds to the reference numerals 3021 to 3025 in FIG. Figure 2 3026 to 3030 in the figure. The aperture diameter storage button 404 is a second operation member that can be operated by the user. The aperture diameter storage button 404 outputs second indication information for indicating storage of diameter information by user operation. The aperture diameter playback button 405 is a third operation member that can be operated by the user. The aperture diameter playback button 405 outputs third indication information for indicating playback of diameter information by user operation. The aperture diameter storage button 404 and the aperture diameter playback button 405 are included in the accessory operation unit 320. The operation notification light 406 is included in the accessory notification unit 322, and is used to notify the user that the user has performed storage and playback operations of the aperture diameter (diameter information).

[0056] Reference now Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C and Figure 5D , a description will be given of a storage operation and a playback operation of an aperture diameter (aperture information) in a state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300 are combined. Figure 5A The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the moving image shooting mode is described. Figure 5B The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the moving image shooting mode is described. Figure 5C and Figure 5D The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode is described. Figure 5E The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode is explained.

[0057] Example of motion picture shooting mode

[0058] In process 501, the camera body 200 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of setting information related to the aperture drive timing. As this communication, the present embodiment assumes two types of notifications: "lens active" and "camera active". The "lens active" setting is a method of driving the aperture unit once the user performs an aperture operation. On the other hand, the "camera active" setting is a method of switching the display but not immediately driving the aperture unit when the user performs the aperture setting. For example, in the still image shooting mode, from the viewpoint of AF accuracy, in the live view display state, the aperture diameter is set to be brighter than the predetermined aperture diameter, and in the aperture narrowing (adjustment) control until the aperture diameter set during still image shooting, "camera active" is set. In process 502, the intermediate accessory 300 stores the setting information.

[0059] In process 503, the accessory microcomputer 301 detects Figure 4A and Figure 4B The electronic ring (manual aperture ring) 411 shown has been operated (first indication information). In the present embodiment, the intermediate accessory 300 includes the electronic ring 411, but the manual aperture operation information may be communicated from the camera body 200 or the interchangeable lens 100. In process 504, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 (aperture drive) according to the ring operation amount detected in process 503.

[0060] Thereafter, at an arbitrary timing, in process 505, a request for acquiring aperture diameter information is transmitted from the camera body 200. In this process, the diameter information requested by the camera body 200 includes, for example, the maximum aperture diameter, the minimum aperture diameter, and the manual ring operation aperture diameter. The maximum aperture diameter refers to diameter information when the aperture is fully open. The minimum aperture diameter refers to diameter information when the aperture is narrowest. The manual ring operation aperture diameter refers to diameter information when the manual ring is operated.

[0061] The maximum aperture diameter has different specifications depending on the model of the attached interchangeable lens 100, and in the case of a zoom lens, also varies depending on the zoom position. Therefore, in process 506, the intermediate accessory 300 requests the interchangeable lens 100 to acquire the maximum aperture diameter information.

[0062] Using the maximum aperture diameter information acquired from the interchangeable lens 100 in process 507 and the current aperture adjustment amount of the accessory aperture unit 303 acquired in process 508, the intermediate accessory 300 generates current manual ring operation diameter information in process 509. The minimum aperture diameter information can be calculated based on the maximum aperture diameter information and the aperture adjustable amount by which the accessory aperture unit 303 can be mechanically adjusted.

[0063] In process 510, the intermediate accessory 300 responds to the camera body 200 with the diameter information generated in processes 506 to 509. In process 511, the current diameter information is displayed on the display unit 206 of the camera body 200. In process 512, the accessory microcomputer 301 detects that Figure 4A and Figure 4B The aperture diameter storage button 404 is shown to have been operated (second indication information). Similar to the processes 506 to 508, the processes 513 to 515 acquire the maximum aperture diameter information of the interchangeable lens 100 and the operation amount information about the manual aperture ring.

[0064] In process 516, the accessory microcomputer 301 generates current manual ring operation aperture diameter information based on the maximum aperture diameter information of the interchangeable lens 100 and the operation amount information of the manual aperture ring, and stores the aperture diameter information in the accessory memory 321. For example, in process 514, information about the maximum aperture diameter F8.0 is received from the interchangeable lens 100. Then, in process 515, in a case where the aperture adjustment amount of the accessory aperture unit 303 is 0.5 steps, F9.5 (8.0 + (11-8) × 0.5) is stored as the current aperture diameter. Alternatively, in a case where the aperture adjustment amount is 0.125 steps, F8.375 (8.0 + (11-8) × 0.125) is stored as the current aperture diameter.

[0065] In process 517, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The operation notification light 406 is shown turned on for a predetermined time to indicate that a storage operation has been performed in response to a user's request to store the aperture diameter.

[0066] Using the above processing, the storage of the aperture diameter information by user operation is completed. Thereafter, the aperture diameter can be changed by user operation, and by performing the following Figure 5B to play back the stored aperture diameters by using the aperture diameter playback operation described in .

[0067] In process 518, the accessory microcomputer 301 detects Figure 4A and Figure 4B The aperture diameter playback button 405 shown has been operated (third operation information). In process 519, the accessory microcomputer 301 reads and acquires the aperture diameter information stored in process 516 from the accessory memory 321. Only one aperture diameter information may be stored, or a plurality of aperture diameter information may be stored and one of the aperture diameter information may be readable. In process 520, the aperture diameter playback button 405 is turned on. Figure 4A and Figure 4BIn processes 521 to 523 , similarly to processes 506 to 508 , the accessory microcomputer 301 generates current aperture diameter information by acquiring the maximum aperture diameter information of the interchangeable lens 100 and the operation amount information of the accessory aperture unit 303 .

[0068] In processing 524, the accessory microcomputer 301 calculates the aperture control amount using the difference between the stored aperture diameter information read out in processing 519 and the current aperture diameter information generated in processing 523. In processing 525, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 using the aperture control amount (aperture playback drive). For example, in a case where the maximum aperture diameter acquired from the interchangeable lens 100 in processing 522 is F5.6 and the aperture amount of the accessory aperture unit 303 acquired in processing 523 is 0.5 stops, the current aperture diameter is F6.8 (5.6+(8-5.6)×0.5). In a case where the stored F value read out in processing 519 is F9.5, the aperture playback drive amount in processing 524 is 2.7 stops (9.5-6.8). The formula for calculating the aperture playback drive amount shown here provides calculation using the F value up to the first decimal place, but can be acquired by a calculation process with finer resolution.

[0069] Processing 526 to processing 532 are similar to processing 505 to processing 510, and in the case where a request for acquiring diameter information is transmitted from the camera body 200, the intermediate accessory 300 generates current aperture diameter information, responds to the camera body 200 with the current aperture diameter information, and updates the display of the aperture diameter information on the display unit 206. In processing 533, the intermediate accessory 300 turns off the operation notification light 406 turned on in processing 520.

[0070] The above-described processing enables storage and playback driving of the aperture diameter during image capture.

[0071] Example of still image shooting mode

[0072] In process 540 , the camera body 200 notifies the “camera active” setting as the aperture drive timing setting notification, and in process 541 , the intermediate accessory 300 stores the setting information.

[0073] In process 542, the accessory microcomputer 301 detects manual aperture operation information similarly to process 503, but since the "camera active" setting has been stored as described above, the accessory aperture unit 303 is not controlled (driven) at this timing. Processes 543 to 549 are similar to processes 505 to 511 in the description of the moving image mode, and the intermediate accessory 300 generates various diameter information, responds to the camera body 200 with the various diameter information, and displays the various diameter information on the display unit 206 as aperture setting values.

[0074] In a case where the operation unit 207 of the camera body 200 accepts a still image shooting operation for still image shooting in process 550, an aperture drive command designating aperture diameter information for still image shooting is transmitted from the camera body 200 in process 551. At this time, since the internal state of the lens such as the zoom position may have changed since the intermediate accessory 300 acquired the maximum aperture diameter information from the interchangeable lens 100 in process 544, the current aperture diameter information is acquired again from the interchangeable lens 100 in processes 552 and 553.

[0075] In process 554, the accessory microcomputer 301 calculates the aperture adjustment amount to be driven based on the maximum aperture diameter acquired in process 553 for the aperture diameter designated by the camera body in process 551. In process 555, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 using the aperture adjustment amount calculated in process 554. The aperture diameter information when the aperture driving is performed in process 555 is temporarily stored in process 556, and a response is transmitted to the camera body 200 in process 557 to notify the camera body 200 of the completion of the aperture driving for still image shooting.

[0076] In process 558, the camera body 200 completes the still image shooting operation and performs a shooting preview display, which allows the user to confirm the content of the shot image. For example, during the preview display, the user can operate Figure 4A and Figure 4B The aperture diameter storage button 404 is pressed, and the intermediate accessory 300 detects the user operation in process 559. In the present embodiment, the aperture diameter storage button 404 is pressed during preview display as an example, but this may be performed at any timing after a still image is captured.

[0077] In process 560, the accessory microcomputer 301 stores the aperture diameter information temporarily stored in process 556 in the accessory memory 321. In process 561, the accessory microcomputer 301 Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe operation notification light 406 is shown turned on for a predetermined time to indicate that a storage operation has been performed in response to a user's request to store the aperture diameter.

[0078] With the above processing, the storage of the aperture diameter information during still image shooting by user operation is completed. Thereafter, the still image shooting operation can be performed any number of times. Any camera operation including the power off / on operation can be performed, and refer to the following Figure 5E , a description will be given of still image capturing during playback of stored diameters only in the case where an aperture diameter playback operation is subsequently performed by a user operation.

[0079] In process 562, the accessory microcomputer 301 detects Figure 4A and Figure 4B The aperture diameter playback button 405 shown has been operated. In process 563, the accessory microcomputer 301 reads and acquires the manual aperture diameter information stored in process 560 from the accessory memory 321. Only one piece of manual aperture diameter information may be stored, or a plurality of pieces of manual aperture diameter information may be stored and read. In process 564, the accessory microcomputer 301 starts Figure 4A and Figure 4B Operation notification light 406 is shown.

[0080] In the case where the operation unit 207 of the camera body 200 accepts the still image shooting operation for still image shooting in process 565, an aperture drive instruction designating the aperture diameter information for still image shooting is transmitted from the camera body 200 in process 566. However, the intermediate accessory 300 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 as described below so as to reproduce the stored diameter (diameter information). At this time, in processes 567 and 568, the intermediate accessory 300 acquires the current maximum aperture diameter information from the interchangeable lens 100.

[0081] In process 569, the accessory microcomputer 301 calculates the aperture adjustment amount to be driven based on the maximum aperture diameter acquired in process 568 for the aperture diameter read out in process 563. In process 570, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 for the aperture adjustment amount calculated in process 569. In process 571, the intermediate accessory 300 turns off the operation notification lamp 406 turned on in process 564. In process 572, the intermediate accessory 300 responds to the camera body 200 with the aperture driving completion for still image shooting.

[0082] Using the above processing, the aperture diameter for still image shooting is stored, and the accessory aperture unit 303 can be controlled to provide the stored diameter in the still image shooting operation when the playback operation is performed. Thus, the storage and playback drive of the aperture diameter in still image shooting can be realized.

[0083] In this embodiment, while keeping the Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the case where a still image capturing operation is accepted during the period in which the aperture diameter playback button 405 is pressed, the aperture diameter may be played back. Alternatively, the aperture diameter may be played back when the first still image capturing operation is accepted after the aperture diameter playback button 405 is pressed. The user can visually confirm that imaging is being performed during the period in which the stored aperture diameter is being played back, through the light display turned on in the process 564 and turned off in the process 571.

[0084] In this embodiment, the user can perform a storage operation and a playback operation of the aperture diameter. In the moving image shooting mode, the aperture diameter can be stored at the timing of the storage operation, and the aperture diameter can be played back at the timing of the playback operation. In the still image shooting mode, the aperture diameter during still image shooting is stored just before the timing of the storage operation, and the stored aperture diameter can be played back by the still image shooting operation during the playback operation. This configuration can provide storage and playback functions of the aperture diameter applicable to each of moving image shooting and still image shooting.

[0085] Although the present embodiment provides both the moving image shooting mode and the still image shooting mode, the present disclosure is not limited to the present embodiment, and only one of the modes may be provided. In the present embodiment, in the case where the accessory microcomputer 301 acquires the second instruction information, the accessory microcomputer 301 may take at least one of the first storage mode and the second storage mode as the storage mode. In the case where the accessory microcomputer 301 acquires the third instruction information, the accessory microcomputer 301 may take at least one of the first playback mode and the second playback mode as the playback mode. The first storage mode is a storage mode for storing the diameter information in the accessory memory 321 at the first timing when the second instruction information is acquired. The second storage mode is a storage mode for storing the diameter information in the accessory memory 321 at the second timing different from the first timing. The first playback mode is a playback mode for controlling the accessory aperture unit 303 using the diameter information at the third timing when the third instruction information is acquired. The second playback mode is a playback mode for controlling the accessory aperture unit 303 using the diameter information at the fourth timing different from the third timing.

[0086] In the case where both the moving image shooting mode and the still image shooting mode are provided, the accessory microcomputer 301 can determine whether the imaging state of the camera body 200 is the moving image shooting state (moving image shooting mode) or the still image shooting state (still image shooting mode). For example, in the case where the imaging state is the moving image shooting state, the accessory microcomputer 301 sets the storage mode to the first storage mode, and sets the playback mode to the first playback mode. On the other hand, for example, in the case where the imaging state is the still image shooting state, the accessory microcomputer 301 sets the storage mode to the second storage mode, and sets the playback mode to the second playback mode.

[0087] In the second storage mode, the accessory microcomputer 301 can store diameter information used for imaging when an imaging instruction is acquired from the camera body 200 via the accessory communication circuit 302 , in the accessory memory 321 .

[0088] In the second storage mode, the accessory microcomputer 301 can store, in the accessory memory 321 at the first timing, diameter information used for imaging when an imaging instruction is acquired from the camera body 200 before the first timing.

[0089] When the accessory microcomputer 301 acquires the third instruction information at the third timing in the second playback mode and acquires an imaging instruction from the camera body 200 after the third timing, the accessory microcomputer 301 controls the accessory aperture unit 303 using the stored diameter information.

[0090] Second embodiment

[0091] A description will now be given of a second embodiment according to the present disclosure. The configuration of the camera system according to the present embodiment is similar to that of the first embodiment. The camera system according to the present embodiment is different from the camera system of the first embodiment in that, instead of the intermediate accessory 300 of the first embodiment, the camera system according to the present embodiment has an intermediate accessory 300a having an aperture diameter playback button 405 but not having an aperture diameter storage button 404.

[0092] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is an appearance diagram of the intermediate component 300a. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The only difference from the first embodiment shown is that there is no aperture diameter storage button 404, and the other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0093] Reference now Fig. 7A and Figure 7B, a description will be given of a playback operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode in a state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300a are combined. Fig. 7A The storage operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode is described. Figure 7B and Figure 7C The playback operation of the aperture diameter in the still image shooting mode is explained. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B As the first embodiment Figure 5C and Figure 5D The corresponding processes in will be represented by the same figure marks.

[0094] Processing 540 to processing 555 are similar to those of the first embodiment, and accept a manual aperture operation by the user, display diameter information on the display unit 206 by the operation, and then accept a still image shooting operation by the user for aperture control.

[0095] In process 701, the accessory microcomputer 301 stores the aperture diameter information of the aperture driving performed in process 555 for still image shooting in the accessory memory 321. The difference from the first embodiment is that the aperture diameter information is stored every time a still image is shot without accepting the aperture diameter storage operation.

[0096] In the following, any camera operation including power off / on operation other than still image shooting can be performed. Still image shooting is performed during playback of the stored diameter only in the case where the aperture diameter playback button 405 is subsequently operated by the user, which will be referred to below. Figure 7B and Figure 7C Give a description.

[0097] Processing 562 to processing 572 are similar to the processing in the first embodiment. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B When the aperture diameter playback button 405 shown in FIG. 1 is pressed and a still image shooting operation is accepted, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the accessory aperture unit 303 to play back the aperture diameter stored in process 556, and completes still image shooting. Processes 702 to 708 are similar to processes 542 to 548, and by accepting the manual aperture operation of the user, the aperture diameter information is displayed on the display unit 206 of the camera body 200.

[0098] Thereafter, in the case where a still image shooting operation is performed without operating the aperture diameter playback button 405, processing 709 to processing 716 are performed. This is similar to processing 550 to processing 557, and the accessory microcomputer 301 controls the accessory aperture unit 303 based on the aperture diameter information notified from the camera body 200, and stores the diameter information in the accessory memory 321. That is, in the case where the aperture diameter playback button 405 is pressed to shoot a still image as shown in processing 562, the aperture diameter in the last still image shooting is played back. On the other hand, in the case where a still image is shot without pressing the aperture diameter playback button 405, the operation is different so that a still image is shot using the diameter information of the current manual aperture, and the aperture diameter at this time is stored.

[0099] Due to the above operation, when the aperture diameter playback button 405 is pressed to shoot a still image, the accessory aperture unit 303 can be driven to play back the aperture diameter of the last still image shooting.

[0100] This embodiment enables the user to perform a playback operation of the aperture diameter, and unlike the first embodiment, the operation member includes only a playback button. In the still image shooting mode, a still image shooting function for playing back the aperture diameter during the last shooting can be provided by operating the playback button.

[0101] Various embodiments may provide an accessory having an aperture unit, a control method thereof, and a storage medium, each of which may appropriately store and play back diameter information of the aperture unit.

[0102] Other embodiments

[0103] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by providing software (program) for performing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer or a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program.

[0104] Although the disclosure describes exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that some embodiments are not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An accessory that can be detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an image pickup device, the accessory comprising: an aperture unit configured to adjust an amount of light incident from the interchangeable lens; a communication unit configured to communicate with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device; A memory, used for storing diameter information of the aperture unit; as well as A control unit configured to: using the diameter information to control the aperture unit, and acquiring, through a user's operation, first instruction information for instructing control of the aperture unit, second instruction information for instructing storage of the diameter information, and third instruction information for instructing playback of the diameter information, The control unit has at least one of a first storage mode and a second storage mode, wherein the first storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a first timing when the second indication information is obtained when the processor obtains the second indication information, and the second storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a second timing different from the first timing when the processor obtains the second indication information, and In which, the control unit has at least one of a first playback mode and a second playback mode. In the first playback mode, when the processor obtains the third indication information, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a third timing when the third indication information is obtained. In the second playback mode, when the processor obtains the third indication information, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a fourth timing different from the third timing.

2. The accessory according to claim 1, further comprising a first operating member operable by a user, It is characterized in that The control unit is configured to acquire the first indication information through the first operating member.

3. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is configured to acquire the first instruction information from at least one of the interchangeable lens and the imaging apparatus via the communication unit.

4. The accessory according to claim 1, further comprising a second operating member operable by a user, It is characterized in that The control unit is configured to acquire the second indication information through the second operating member.

5. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control unit is configured to acquire the second instruction information from at least one of the interchangeable lens and the imaging apparatus via the communication unit.

6. The accessory according to claim 1, further comprising a third operating member operable by a user, It is characterized in that The control unit is configured to acquire the third indication information through the third operating member.

7. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that The control unit is configured to acquire the third instruction information from at least one of the interchangeable lens and the imaging apparatus via the communication unit.

8. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that When the control unit acquires the second indication information, the control unit has the first storage mode and the second storage mode, and when the control unit acquires the third indication information, the control unit has the first playback mode and the second playback mode.

9. The accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that The control unit is configured to determine whether the camera is in a moving image shooting state or a still image shooting state, Wherein, when the camera device is in a motion image shooting state, the control unit is configured to set the storage mode to the first storage mode, and Wherein, when the control unit sets the playback mode to the first playback mode and the camera device is in a still image shooting state, the control unit is configured to set the storage mode to the second storage mode and set the playback mode to the second playback mode.

10. The accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that The control unit is configured to store the diameter information used for imaging in the memory in the second storage mode when the control unit acquires an imaging instruction from the imaging device via the communication unit.

11. The accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that The control unit is configured to store the diameter information used for imaging in the memory at the first timing in the second storage mode, when the control unit acquires an imaging instruction from the imaging device before the first timing.

12. The accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that When the control unit acquires the third indication information at the third timing in the second playback mode and acquires an imaging indication from the imaging device after the third timing, the control unit is configured to control the aperture unit using the diameter information stored in the memory.

13. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that The diameter information includes information on an aperture driving amount of the aperture unit.

14. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that The diameter information includes diameter information of the interchangeable lens in a maximum aperture state.

15. A method for controlling an accessory, wherein the accessory is detachably mounted between an interchangeable lens and a camera device, the method comprising the following steps: Acquiring, through a user's operation, first indication information for indicating control of an aperture unit of the accessory, second indication information for indicating storage of diameter information, and third indication information for indicating playback of the diameter information; Setting the first storage mode or the second storage mode as the storage mode when the second indication information is acquired, the first storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a first timing when the second indication information is acquired, and the second storage mode is used to store the diameter information in the memory at a second timing different from the first timing; as well as The first playback mode or the second playback mode is set to be the playback mode when the third indication information is obtained. In the first playback mode, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a third timing when the third indication information is obtained. In the second playback mode, the diameter information is used to control the aperture unit at a fourth timing different from the third timing. 16 . A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 15 .

17. A computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 15.

Images