Accessory apparatus, imaging apparatus, control method, storage medium, and program product

Abstract

The invention relates to an accessory apparatus, an imaging apparatus, a control method, a storage medium, and a program product. The accessory apparatus is attachable to and detachable from the image pickup apparatus. The accessory apparatus includes: an accessory control unit configured to acquire a first setting value for the accessory apparatus stored in an image pickup apparatus through communication with the image pickup apparatus; and an accessory memory for storing a second setting value for the accessory device. The accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to preferentially use the first setting value or the second setting value as a setting value for the accessory device in accordance with a user setting.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-31462 discloses an imaging device that can set setting values for an external flash (or strobe) device and includes a memory for storing the setting values for the external flash device and a control unit configured to clear the setting values when a change in attachment of the external flash device is detected.

[0003] When a different external flash device is attached, the imaging device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-31462 must reset the settings for the external flash device. For example, multiple types of external flash devices may have different settable functions and settings. Furthermore, if a user wishes to use the settings initially set for a particular external flash device for other external flash devices and accidentally changes those settings, the user must reset the settings. This degrades user convenience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an accessory device can be attached to and detached from a camera device. The accessory device includes: an accessory control unit configured to acquire a first setting value for the accessory device stored in the camera device by communicating with the camera device; and an accessory memory for storing a second setting value for the accessory device. The accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to give priority to using the first setting value or the second setting value as the setting value for the accessory device based on user settings. The control method of the above-mentioned accessory device also constitutes another aspect of the present disclosure. A storage medium storing a program that enables a computer to execute the above-mentioned control method also constitutes another aspect of the present invention.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a camera device can be attached to and detached from an accessory device. The camera device includes: a camera memory that stores a first setting value for the accessory device; and a camera control unit that is configured to: send the first setting value to the accessory device through communication with the accessory device, and determine, based on user settings, whether to give priority to using the first setting value or the second setting value stored in the accessory device as the setting value for the accessory device. The control method of the above-mentioned camera device also constitutes another aspect of the present disclosure. A storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute the above-mentioned control method also constitutes another aspect of the present invention.

[0006] Further features of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an imaging system according to various embodiments.

[0008] Figure 2 This section illustrates a sample screen when changing the settings of an accessory device in the imaging device.

[0009] Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B and Figure 3C Example setting values in the case where different accessory devices are attached to the imaging apparatus are illustrated.

[0010] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a setting process for an accessory device according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 5 An example setting screen for accessory settings in the first embodiment is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 6 Example setting items and setting value information in the first accessory setting information in the first embodiment are illustrated.

[0013] Figure 7A and Figure 7B Examples of the first accessory setting value and setting values that can be set for the accessory device in the first embodiment are illustrated.

[0014] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a setting process for an accessory device according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B 、 Figure 9C and Figure 9D An example of an accessory function setting screen displayed on the imaging apparatus according to the second embodiment is illustrated.

[0016] Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating a setting process for an accessory device according to the third embodiment. 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. Memory contains instructions or programs that, 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. Depending on the specific embodiment, the term "unit" may include mechanical, optical, or electrical 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 substrate and other material layers have various conductivity concentrations. The term "unit" may include a CPU or programmable processor that can execute a program stored in memory to perform a specified function. The term "unit" may include a logic element (e.g., AND, OR) implemented by a transistor circuit or any other switching circuit. In the context of a combination of software and hardware, the term "unit" or "circuit" refers to any combination of the software context and the hardware context as described above. Additionally, the term "element," "assembly," "component," or "device" may also refer to a "circuit" that is integrated with or not integrated with packaging materials.

[0018] Referring now to the drawings, a detailed description will be given of embodiments according to the present disclosure.

[0019] Now refer to Figure 1 , a description will be given of the imaging system 10 according to each embodiment. Figure 1 1 is a block diagram of an imaging system 10. The imaging system 10 includes a camera body (imaging device) 100, a lens device (interchangeable lens) 200, and an accessory device (illumination device) 300.

[0020] The camera body 100 and the lens unit 200 are mechanically and electrically connected via the mounting contact group 103. In various embodiments, the lens unit 200 is attachable to and detachable from the camera body 100, but is not limited to this example and may be integral with the camera body 100. The accessory unit 300 is attachable to and detachable from the top surface of the camera body 100. In various embodiments, the accessory unit 300 is a flash unit (lighting unit), but is not limited to this example. The accessory unit 300 may be another device such as a microphone, a video light, or a transmitter, as long as it is connectable to the camera body 100.

[0021] The camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are interchangeable. The camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are electrically connected via the accessory communication unit 108, the camera activation status notification unit 109, and the accessory connection detector 308. The camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 can be fixed by setting the accessory lock unit 307 to the locked position.

[0022] The camera control unit 101 is a microcomputer (camera processor) that controls the operation of each component in the camera body 100. The image sensor 102 is a photoelectric conversion element such as a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor or a charge coupled device (CCD) sensor. The image sensor 102 may include an infrared cut filter and a low-pass filter.

[0023] The shutter 104 is arranged between the image sensor 102 and the lens device 200. The shutter 104 is closed to shield the image sensor 102 from light during non-image capturing according to an instruction from the camera control unit 101, and is opened during live view or image capturing to guide incident light that has passed through the lens device 200 to the image sensor 102.

[0024] The camera operation unit 105 includes operation members operable by the user, detects operations performed by the user via buttons, switches, dials, and connected devices attached to the camera body 100, and transmits signals corresponding to the operation instructions to the camera control unit 101. The camera operation unit 105 outputs, to the camera control unit 101, a command signal (SW1 signal) issued when the user presses the release button halfway and a command signal (SW2 signal) issued when the user presses the release button fully.

[0025] The camera display unit 106 displays imaging information, captured images, and a camera setting menu in accordance with instructions from the camera control unit 101. The user operates the camera operation unit 105 to change the setting values for the camera body 100 from the camera setting menu displayed on the camera display unit 106. At this time, the camera control unit 101 writes the setting values for the camera body 100 into the camera memory 107. In various embodiments, the information stored in the camera memory 107 includes, but is not limited to, setting information related to the accessory device 300, setting values and adjustment values for the camera body 100, and the like.

[0026] The camera control unit 101 controls the operation of the camera body 100 based on the output signal of the camera operation unit 105. When the output signal of the camera operation unit 105 is the SW1 signal, the camera control unit 101 drives the imaging element 102 to capture an image and repeatedly performs photometry control to measure the brightness of the subject from the captured image. Based on the photometry results, the camera control unit 101 also determines the shutter speed, aperture value (F-number), and ISO sensitivity (ISO speed) to be used for imaging. The shutter speed, aperture value, and ISO sensitivity to be used for imaging are collectively referred to as exposure control values. The exposure control values determined by the camera control unit 101 are displayed on the screen of the camera display unit 106. When the output signal of the camera operation unit 105 is the SW2 signal, the aperture stop (diaphragm) 203 in the lens device 200 is driven to set the sensitivity (ISO sensitivity) of the imaging element 102, and the shutter 104 is controlled to illuminate the imaging element 102 with light.

[0027] The camera control unit 101 displays the captured image on the screen of the camera display unit 106 based on the image data acquired from the image sensor 102, and also performs processing to write the image data to the camera memory 107. Depending on the camera power status, the camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the camera status via the camera activation status notification unit 109. For example, if the output signal from the camera operation unit 105 is a power SW off signal, the camera control unit 101 shuts off the power supply. Consequently, the signal level of the camera activation status notification unit 109 becomes low, and the accessory device 300 detects that the power to the camera body 100 has been turned off.

[0028] The structure of the lens device 200 will now be described. The lens control unit 201 is a microcomputer (lens processor) that controls the operation of each component in the lens device 200. The imaging lens 202 includes multiple lenses and forms a subject image on the image sensor 102. The lens device 200 (imaging lens 202) includes an aperture stop 203 configured to adjust the amount of light and a focus lens (not shown) for focusing. Under control via the mounting contact group 103, the lens control unit 201 adjusts the amount of light entering the camera body 100 and the focus state according to instructions from the camera control unit 101.

[0029] The structure of the accessory device 300 will now be described. The accessory control unit 301 is a microcomputer (accessory processor) configured to control the operation of each component in the accessory device 300. The accessory control unit 301 can communicate with the camera control unit 101 via the accessory communication unit 108, and can receive lighting control instructions and camera information from the camera control unit 101 and transmit accessory information. The communication method can have multiple communications (such as one high-speed communication and another low-speed communication). For example, the communication method can be divided into a CPU that manages power restrictions of the camera body 100 and status change signals of the accessory device 300, and a CPU that mainly controls imaging of the camera body 100.

[0030] The light emitter 302 includes a discharge tube, a light-emitting capacitor, a light-emitting circuit, and a light-emitting optical system, and can emit flashlight. The accessory operation unit 303 includes a user-operable member, detects user operations performed via buttons, dials, or switches attached to the accessory device 300, and transmits a signal corresponding to the operation instruction to the accessory control unit 301.

[0031] The accessory display unit 304 displays information such as lighting settings, radio wave settings, and the operating status of the accessory according to instructions from the accessory control unit 301. The accessory memory 305 is a non-volatile memory electrically connected to the accessory control unit 301, and the accessory control unit 301 controls the settings of the accessory memory 305 via serial communication. Information stored in the accessory memory 305 in this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, control information, setting information, and adjustment values for the accessory device 300.

[0032] Accessory wireless communication unit 306 transmits and receives wireless communication information to and from wirelessly connected accessory device 300 via a wireless antenna (not shown). Accessory control unit 301 can transmit and receive control information with respect to other wirelessly connected accessory devices via accessory wireless communication unit 306.

[0033] The accessory lock unit 307 is a member for fixing the accessory device 300 to the accessory shoe unit (not illustrated) of the camera body 100. By moving the accessory lock unit 307 to a predetermined position, the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 can be fixed together.

[0034] When the accessory lock unit 307 moves to the locked or unlocked position, the accessory connection detector 308 outputs an accessory detection signal to the camera control unit 101. This allows the camera control unit 101 to detect the connection status. The accessory lock unit 307 and the accessory connection detector 308 can be electrically connected so that the accessory lock unit 307 outputs a signal in conjunction with the accessory connection detector 308. The accessory control unit 301 can obtain the output signal from the accessory connection detector 308 by detecting the switch status of the accessory lock unit 307.

[0035] The accessory zoom unit 309 can change the illumination angle during light emission by driving a motor provided in the accessory zoom unit 309 based on a pulse signal output by the accessory control unit 301. The user can change the illumination angle setting by operating the accessory operation unit 303. Alternatively, the camera control unit 101 can obtain the focal length of the lens from the lens control unit 201 and notify the accessory control unit 301 via the accessory communication unit 108, thereby changing the illumination angle setting.

[0036] Typically, flash photography (strobe photography) in which the flash is aimed at the subject, and wireless multi-flash photography, in which multiple strobes are used to create an image by emitting light beams, are used in various scenes, such as backlit scenes during the day or in dark places. To capture images in various scenes, users change various settings on external flash devices, such as wireless multi-flash settings, synchronization settings, and dimming control.

[0037] Figure 2 This is an example menu screen for changing the settings for the external flash device in the imaging apparatus. For example, the user can operate the imaging apparatus in a state where the external flash device is attached to the imaging apparatus so that the user can display the settings as shown in FIG. Figure 2 The illustrated external flash function setting screen allows users to select a function for the external flash device and change its settings. Examples of external flash device functions that can be changed include the emission mode (a), wireless settings (b), illumination angle settings (c), synchronization settings (d), and dimming control value (e). Other settings can be displayed and set. In addition to the above methods, users can also change settings by operating the external flash device body, which has a display member and operating member.

[0038] The user may have multiple external flash devices and may remove the current external flash device attached to the imaging device and attach a different external flash device to capture images. Thus, even if such a different external flash device is attached to the imaging device, the setting value may not be changed.

[0039] Figure 3A and Figure 3BAn example of two external flash devices with different settings is illustrated. External flash device A ( Figure 3A ) and external flash unit B( Figure 3B ) each having different setting values for the lighting mode, illumination angle, dimming control, or amount of light emission. In an example using these external flash devices, in the method disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-31462, when an image capture device is attached to external flash device A, the image capture device uses a communication unit to obtain setting values from external flash device A and stores the setting values in a memory within the image capture device. When the image capture device detects that external flash device A has been disconnected using a connection detector configured to detect a connection, the image capture device clears the setting values for external flash device A.

[0040] In a case where the user replaces the external flash device A with the external flash device B and intends to use the settings of the external flash device A for recording, the user needs to reset the settings of the external flash device A to the external flash device B. This is inconvenient for the user who wants to use the same settings for the external flash devices A and B for recording.

[0041] Therefore, it is possible to maintain Figure 3A In the setting of the external flash device A connected to the image pickup device, and in the case where the external flash device B is attached to the image pickup device, as shown Figure 3C As illustrated, the settings may be the same as those of the external flash device A. Thus, for example, the imaging device uses the communication unit to acquire and maintain setting information related to the external flash function from the attached external flash device A, and, when the external flash device B is attached, notifies the setting information to the external flash device B. Then, the external flash device B resets the notified setting information to its own setting information.

[0042] Each embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0043] First embodiment

[0044] Now refer to Figure 4 , a description will now be given of the setting process for the accessory device 300 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the setup process for the accessory device 300 according to the present embodiment. Figure 4 Each step in the embodiment is mainly executed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. This embodiment will describe a method for reflecting setting values for the accessory device (accessory function settings) held by the camera body 100 in the accessory device 300 when the user attaches the accessory device 300 to the camera body 100.

[0045] First, in step S401, the accessory control unit 301 detects the connection with the camera body 100 by monitoring the accessory connection detector 308 or the camera activation status notification unit 109, and determines whether the camera connection status has changed (whether a connection has been detected). In this determination, if it is determined that the camera connection status has changed (connection with the camera body 100 has been detected), the flow proceeds to step S402. On the other hand, if the camera connection status has not changed, the accessory control unit 301 continues to monitor the accessory connection detector 308 or the camera activation status notification unit 109.

[0046] In step S402, the accessory control unit 301 performs processing (connection processing) required to establish a connection condition with the camera body 100. Here, the connection processing may be started when the power levels of the terminals attached to the camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 exceed a specified value, or the connection processing may be started according to a connection protocol via the accessory communication unit 108.

[0047] Next, in step S403, the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301 determines the accessory setting priority (the accessory setting to be prioritized). In this embodiment, the accessory setting priority (setting priority mode) has a first accessory setting priority (first mode) and a second accessory setting priority (second mode). In the first accessory setting priority, the accessory setting (first setting value) stored in the camera memory 107 of the camera body 100 is prioritized as the setting value for the accessory device 300. On the other hand, in the second accessory setting priority, the accessory setting (second setting value) stored in the accessory memory 305 of the accessory device 300 is prioritized as the setting value for the accessory device 300.

[0048] Now refer to Figure 5 , a description will be given of the setting screen for setting priority for accessories. Figure 5 This is a sample setting screen for accessory setting priority. Figure 5 As illustrated in (a) of FIG. 1 , one of the camera body 100 and the accessory device (flash) 300 may be set to have accessory setting priority. Figure 5 In (a), the flash is set to prioritize the accessory setting. In this case, the second accessory setting takes priority.

[0049] The user can switch between the first accessory setting priority and the second accessory setting priority by operating the accessory operation unit 303 to switch the setting of the accessory setting priority. In the present embodiment, the accessory setting priority information is stored in the accessory device 300, but the present embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, the accessory setting priority information may be stored in the camera body 100, and the information may be notified via the accessory communication unit 108. Alternatively, the accessory setting priority information may be stored in the accessory device 300, and may be displayed on the camera body 100 in conjunction with the accessory setting priority. Figure 5 The illustrated setting screen is similar to a setting screen to enable the user to set the accessory setting priority information, and the information can be notified to the accessory device 300.

[0050] If it is determined in step S403 that the first accessory is prioritized, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if it is determined that the second accessory is prioritized, the process ends.

[0051] In step S404, the camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the first accessory setting (first accessory setting information, first setting value) stored in the camera body 100 via the accessory communication unit 108. Thus, the accessory control unit 301 can acquire the first accessory setting information. Figure 6 Example setting items and setting value information in the first accessory setting information are illustrated. The camera control unit 101 selects Figure 6 The accessory device 300 selects the setting value information (setting value) corresponding to the illustrated setting item and notifies the accessory device 300 of the selected setting value information.

[0052] In this embodiment, the setting items include, but are not limited to, lighting mode, wireless settings, dimming control value, lighting amount, illumination angle, and shutter synchronization lighting setting. The setting items may include, for example, custom function settings (not shown) that enable fine-grained switchable settings for the accessory device 300. The custom function settings include a setting for whether to enable the lighting of the light emitter 302 that assists the autofocus (AF) function when the AF function of the camera body 100 is enabled and it is difficult to focus on the subject due to low illumination. The setting value information includes a plurality of setting value information for each setting item, but is not limited to these examples.

[0053] Next, in step S405, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the automatic update setting for the second accessory setting is enabled (whether the acquired first accessory setting is automatically updated to the second accessory setting). For example, the accessory setting unit (accessory operation unit 303, accessory display unit 304) determines whether the second accessory setting stored in the accessory storage 305 is automatically updated through user operation. If the second accessory setting is set to automatically update, the process proceeds to step S407. On the other hand, if the second accessory setting is not set to automatically update, the process proceeds to step S406.

[0054] Now refer to Figure 5 , an explanation will be given of a sample setting screen for automatic accessory update settings. Figure 5 As illustrated in (b), the user operates the accessory operation unit 303 to set the setting to "ON" or "OFF", so that the first accessory setting priority or the second accessory setting priority can be automatically reflected. Figure 5 The accessory setting illustrated in (a) above takes precedence. Similarly, settings for automatic accessory setting update may be stored in the camera body 100 .

[0055] In step S406, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory settings already set in the accessory device 300 in the accessory memory 305. For example, if the accessory control unit 301 is set to the first accessory settings, the accessory control unit 301 changes the second accessory settings stored in the accessory memory 305 to the first accessory settings and stores the second accessory settings again in the accessory memory 305. That is, if the accessory control unit 301 is set not to automatically update the second accessory settings in step S405, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory settings in the accessory memory 305. Alternatively, the camera setting unit (camera operation unit 105, camera display unit 106) can be configured to automatically update the second accessory settings through user operation. If it is determined that the second accessory settings are not to be automatically updated, the accessory control unit 301 stores the second accessory settings in the accessory memory 305 through communication with the camera body 100. This allows the user to reset the second accessory settings.

[0056] In step S407, the accessory control unit 301 selects an accessory setting (setting value information) to be updated from the list of the first accessory setting according to the user setting. The accessory control unit 301 performs update processing for each setting item in the selected setting value information in the following steps S408 to S411.

[0057] In step S408, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the accessory setting selected in step S407 is a setting value that can be set in the accessory device 300. If the selected accessory setting is a setting value that can be set, the process proceeds to step S409. On the other hand, if the selected accessory setting is not a setting value that can be set, the process proceeds to step S410.

[0058] In step S409, the accessory control unit 301 reflects the selected first accessory setting in the second accessory setting. Thus, the accessory control unit 301 can control the accessory device 300 based on the reflected first accessory setting.

[0059] In step S410, the accessory control unit 301 reflects the setting value (predetermined accessory setting) that can be set to the accessory device 300 to the second accessory setting. Here, as the predetermined accessory setting, the second accessory setting before reflection may be set as it is, or a predetermined setting value (fixed setting value) may be set as the second accessory setting.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 7A and Figure 7B , a detailed description will be given of the situation where inconsistencies occur in accessory setting values. Figure 7A and Figure 7B An example of a first accessory setting notified from the camera body 100 in a case where the accessory device 300 is an external flash device, and examples of settable information to the external flash devices A and B are illustrated. Figure 7B The external flash device A in Figure 7A All the first accessory setting values in are compatible, and all setting values can be reflected in the second accessory settings. On the other hand, Figure 7B In the example, external flash device B does not have a wireless setting and cannot be set when the light emission amount is 1 / 1024 or less, so an inconsistency occurs. For example, by replacing the wireless setting with a non-wireless setting or cutting the light emission amount to 1 / 1024, it is possible to use external flash device B without an inconsistency.

[0061] Then, in Figure 4 In step S411, the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the reflection of all first accessory settings (all setting values) has been completed. If the reflection of all first accessory settings has been completed, the process ends. On the other hand, if the reflection of the first accessory settings has not been completed, the process proceeds to step S407, and the unreflected first accessory settings are selected and the subsequent steps are repeated.

[0062] In this embodiment, the accessory control unit 301 can obtain the first setting value for the accessory device 300 stored in the camera body 100 by communicating with the camera body 100, and the accessory memory 305 can store the second setting value for the accessory device 300. The accessory control unit 301 also determines whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value as the setting value for the accessory device 300 based on the user setting. This determination can also be made by the camera control unit 101 instead of the accessory control unit 301. Alternatively, the camera control unit 101 and the accessory control unit 301 can cooperate to make the determination.

[0063] When the accessory control unit 301 determines that the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are connected, the accessory control unit 301 may determine whether the first accessory setting or the second accessory setting is to be used with priority.

[0064] The accessory device 300 may include an accessory setting unit (accessory operation unit 303, accessory display unit 304), which is configured to set whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used first through user operation. The accessory control unit 301 determines whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used first based on the setting of the accessory setting unit.

[0065] Alternatively, the camera body 100 may include a camera setting unit (camera operation unit 105, camera display unit 106) configured to set whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority through user operation. In this case, the accessory control unit 301 can determine whether the first setting value or the second setting value is to be used with priority through communication with the camera body 100.

[0066] When the accessory control unit 301 determines that the first setting value is to be used preferentially and the accessory device 300 cannot set the first setting value, the accessory control unit 301 may use a predetermined setting value (second setting value or fixed setting value) settable to the accessory device 300.

[0067] Even if a different accessory device 300 is attached to the camera body 100, the present embodiment can notify the accessory device 300 of consistent accessory settings and restart imaging using the same settings. As a result, the present embodiment can improve user convenience.

[0068] Second embodiment

[0069] Now refer to Figure 8 , a description will be given of a setting process for the accessory device 300 according to the second embodiment. Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the setting process of the accessory device 300 according to the present embodiment. Figure 8Each step in is mainly performed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. This embodiment will discuss a method for updating accessory setting values stored in the camera body 100 in the case where the settings are updated from the accessory function setting screen on the camera display unit 106 in the camera body 100. This embodiment assumes that the camera body 100 and the accessory device 300 are already attached and can communicate via the accessory communication unit 108.

[0070] First, in step S801 , the camera control unit 101 determines whether the user has performed an operation to select one of the accessory functions on the accessory function setting screen of the camera body 100 . Figure 9A 、 Figure 9B 、 Figure 9C and Figure 9D 1 illustrates an example screen transition of the accessory function setting screen displayed on the camera display unit 106 in a case where the accessory device 300 is an external flash device. Figure 9A The item currently selected with the cursor is blacked out (in Figure 9A , a lighting mode is selected with the cursor), and the cursor can be moved to another accessory function by operating the camera operation unit 105. Operating the operation member of the camera operation unit 105 that prompts the user to make a decision can transition to a setting change screen for the accessory function item currently selected with the cursor, and this operation is regarded as an operation for selecting one of the accessory functions.

[0071] If it is determined in step S801 that an operation for selecting one of the accessory functions has been performed (setting selection by the user), the flow proceeds to step S802. On the other hand, if it is determined that no setting selection operation has been performed by the user, the flow returns to step S801, and the camera control unit 101 monitors whether an operation for selecting one of the accessory functions has been performed.

[0072] In step S802, the camera control unit 101 acquires settable information for the accessory device 300 via the accessory communication unit 108. For example, Figure 7B In the lighting mode of the accessory device 300, external flash device A can set the lighting mode ETTL / Manual / MULTI / Gr. On the other hand, external flash device B can only set the two setting values of ETTL / Manual. Displaying the setting screen on the camera display unit 106 of the camera body 100 based on the settable information for the accessory device 300 to be attached can encourage the user to make settings without confusion.

[0073] Next, in step S803 , the camera control unit 101 displays setting values settable to the accessory device 300 based on the setting availability information acquired in step S802 (transitions to a setting change screen for each function). Figure 9B is Figure 9A 105. In this selection screen, the user can operate the camera operation unit 105 to prompt the user to change the setting to the setting value he wishes to change.

[0074] Next, in step S804, the camera control unit 101 determines whether the setting value has been changed by a user operation (whether a setting change has occurred). In the case where it is determined that a setting change has occurred, the flow proceeds to step S805. On the other hand, in the case where it is determined that no setting change has occurred, the flow returns to step S804, and the camera control unit 101 monitors whether the setting value has been changed. Figure 9D Operating the camera operation unit 105 as illustrated can move the cursor selection for the setting value of the accessory function to be selected, and operating the operation member of the camera operation unit 105 that prompts the user to make a decision can transition to the processing for changing the setting value in step S805 and subsequent steps.

[0075] In step S805, the camera control unit 101 acquires the changed setting value information based on the output of the camera operation unit 105 in step S804. Figure 9C When the camera operation unit 105 is operated at the illustrated position to prompt the decision, the lighting mode becomes the setting value information after the change as the manual mode, and as shown in FIG. Figure 9D As illustrated, the display of the lighting mode is changed to the manual mode.

[0076] Next, in step S806, the camera control unit 101 acquires accessory setting priority information from the accessory device 300 via the accessory communication unit 108. The accessory setting priority information is information indicating whether the first accessory setting (first setting value) or the second accessory setting (second setting value) is to be set with priority.

[0077] Next, in step S807, the camera control unit 101 determines whether the accessory setting priority information acquired in step S806 indicates that the first accessory setting is prioritized. If it is determined that the accessory setting priority information indicates that the first accessory setting is prioritized, the process proceeds to step S808. On the other hand, if it is determined that the accessory setting priority information does not indicate that the first accessory setting is prioritized, the process proceeds to step S809.

[0078] In step S808 , the camera control unit 101 stores the changed setting value information acquired in step S805 in the camera memory 107 , and the flow proceeds to step S809 .

[0079] In step S809, the camera control unit 101 notifies the accessory device 300 of the changed setting value information acquired in step S805 via the accessory communication unit 108, and ends the flow. The accessory device 300 updates the setting value after it receives the communication of the accessory setting change.

[0080] This embodiment can update the first accessory setting even if the setting value is changed from the accessory setting screen of the camera body 100. Therefore, even if a different accessory device 300 is attached, this embodiment can restart imaging without changing the setting value to a setting value not intended by the user.

[0081] Third embodiment

[0082] Now refer to Figure 10 , a description will be given of a setting process for the accessory device 300 according to the third embodiment. Figure 10 3 is a flowchart illustrating the setup process for the accessory device 300 according to the present embodiment.

[0083] Figure 10 The steps in FIG. 1 are mainly performed by the camera control unit 101 or the accessory control unit 301. This embodiment will discuss a method for updating the second accessory settings in a case where the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are disconnected.

[0084] First, in step S1001, the accessory control unit 301 detects a change in the connection state with the camera body 100 and determines whether the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are disconnected. Methods for detecting a change in connection state include a method in which the user operates the accessory lock unit 307 from the locked position to the unlocked position, and disconnection is determined by detecting the output of the accessory connection detector 308 that has changed due to this operation. Another detection method is a method in which the camera control unit 101 monitors the power supply state of the camera body 100 and, if power is disconnected, notifies the accessory control unit 301 of the camera power-off state via the camera activation status notification unit 109, and the accessory control unit 301 determines disconnection based on this output. This embodiment assumes that both detection methods are available, but only one of the two detection methods, or a different detection method, may be used.

[0085] If the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are disconnected in step S1001 (if it is determined that the accessory device 300 has been detached from the camera body 100), the flow proceeds to step S1002. On the other hand, if it is determined that the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are not disconnected, the accessory control unit 301 repeats the determination in step S1001.

[0086] In step S1002, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the setting value for the accessory setting priority set in the accessory device 300 is the first accessory setting priority. In the case where it is determined in step S1002 that the first accessory setting is the setting to be prioritized, the process proceeds to step S1003. On the other hand, in the case where the setting value for the accessory setting priority is not the first accessory setting (first setting value), that is, in the case where the second accessory setting (second setting value) is the setting to be prioritized, the process ends. In the case where the first accessory setting is the setting to be prioritized in step S1002, the first accessory setting is set to the accessory device 300.

[0087] In step S1003, the accessory control unit 301 determines whether the second accessory setting set to the accessory device 300 is a setting to be automatically updated. If the second accessory setting is a setting to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S1004. On the other hand, if the second accessory setting is not a setting to be automatically updated, the process proceeds to step S1005.

[0088] In step S1004, the accessory control unit 301 stores the first accessory setting in the accessory memory 305. At this time, the first accessory setting is set to the accessory device 300. Storing the first accessory setting in the accessory memory 305 again allows the setting to continue to be used as the second accessory setting even if the accessory device 300 is powered off.

[0089] In step S1005, the accessory control unit 301 acquires the second accessory setting pre-stored in the accessory memory 305, and reflects the second accessory setting in the setting of the accessory device 300. Thus, the accessory control unit 301 can change the setting from the first accessory setting to the second accessory setting.

[0090] In the present embodiment, when the accessory device 300 and the camera body 100 are disconnected in a state where the first accessory setting is set, the accessory control unit 301 changes the setting value for the accessory device 300 from the first accessory setting to the second accessory setting.

[0091] When the accessory device 300 is detached from the camera body 100, the present embodiment can reflect the second accessory setting before attachment to the camera body 100 to the accessory device 300. Even after the accessory device 300 is detached, the accessory device 300 can be used while maintaining the first accessory setting.

[0092] When an accessory device is removed and another accessory device is attached, each embodiment can restart recording using the same settings as the previous accessory device without resetting the functions of the accessory. Furthermore, recording can be restarted using the setting values set to each accessory device. Thus, each embodiment can provide an accessory device, an imaging device, a control method, and a storage medium that can each improve user convenience.

[0093] Other embodiments

[0094] The embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by the following method, that is, software (including computer program products of computer programs / instructions) that perform the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is provided to a system or device through a network or various storage media, and a computer (central processing unit (CPU), microprocessing unit (MPU)) of the system or device reads and executes the computer program / instructions.

[0095] Although the present disclosure describes example embodiments, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the example embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications, equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An accessory device that is attachable to and detachable from a camera device, the accessory device comprising: an accessory control unit configured to acquire a first setting value for the accessory device stored in the camera device by communicating with the camera device; as well as an accessory memory, configured to store a second setting value for the accessory device, It is characterized in that the accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value preferentially as the setting value for the accessory device according to user settings.

2. The accessory device according to claim 1 , further comprising an accessory setting unit configured to perform a setting regarding whether to prioritize the first setting value or the second setting value according to a user operation, It is characterized by: The accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value with priority according to the setting of the accessory setting unit.

3. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to give priority to the first setting value or the second setting value by communicating with the imaging device, and the imaging device includes a camera setting unit, and the camera setting unit is configured to set whether to give priority to the first setting value or the second setting value through user operation.

4. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the accessory control unit determines that the first setting value is to be used preferentially and the accessory device cannot set the first setting value, the accessory control unit is configured to use a predetermined setting value that can be set to the accessory device.

5. The accessory device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The predetermined setting value is the second setting value or a fixed setting value.

6. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: In a case where the accessory control unit sets the first setting value, the accessory control unit is configured to change a second setting value stored in the accessory memory to the first setting value and store the second setting value in the accessory memory again.

7. The accessory device according to claim 6, further comprising an accessory setting unit configured to set whether to automatically update the second setting value stored in the accessory memory through a user operation, It is characterized in that In a case where the second setting value is set not to be automatically updated, the accessory control unit is configured to store the second setting value in the accessory memory.

8. The accessory device according to claim 6, characterized in that: In a case where the accessory control unit determines through communication with the camera device that the second setting value will not be automatically updated, the accessory control unit is configured to store the second setting value in the accessory memory, and the camera device includes a camera setting unit, which is configured to set whether to automatically update the second setting value stored in the accessory memory through user operation.

9. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the accessory control unit determines that the accessory device is connected to the imaging device, the accessory control unit is configured to determine whether to use the first setting value or the second setting value with priority.

10. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the accessory control unit determines that the accessory device is disconnected from the imaging device with the first setting value set, the accessory control unit is configured to change the setting value for the accessory device from the first setting value to the second setting value.

11. The accessory device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The setting value includes a value related to at least one of a lighting mode, a wireless setting, a dimming control value, a lighting amount, an illumination angle, a shutter synchronization lighting setting, and a custom function setting for the accessory device.

12. The accessory device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that The accessory device is a lighting device.

13. A camera apparatus that is attachable to and detachable from an accessory apparatus, the camera apparatus comprising: a camera memory storing a first setting value for the accessory device; as well as A camera control unit configured to: sending the first setting value to the accessory device through communication with the accessory device, and It is determined whether to preferentially use the first setting value or the second setting value stored in the accessory device as the setting value for the accessory device according to a user setting.

14. The imaging device according to claim 13, wherein In a case where the first setting value is changed by a user operation in a setting in which the first setting value is to be used preferentially, the camera control unit is configured to store the changed first setting value in the camera memory.

15. A control method for an accessory device that is attachable to and detachable from an imaging device, the control method comprising the following steps: determining, according to a user setting, whether to preferentially use a first setting value stored in the camera device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value for the accessory device; If it is determined that the first setting value is to be used, acquiring the first setting value through communication with the imaging device; as well as The first setting value is set as a setting value for the accessory device.

16. A control method for an image pickup apparatus that is attachable to and detachable from an accessory apparatus, the control method comprising the steps of: determining, according to a user setting, whether to preferentially use a first setting value stored in the camera device or a second setting value stored in the accessory device as a setting value for the accessory device; as well as If it is determined that the first setting value is to be used, the first setting value is transmitted through communication with the accessory device. 17 . A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 15 or 16 . 18 . A computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 15 .

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