Imaging apparatus, stereo lens device, and method for controlling these

Abstract

To urge a user to adjust the focal difference between two optical systems for every imaging apparatus mounted with a stereo lens device.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus 10 is removably and communicably mounted with a stereo lens device having two optical systems arranged in parallel, focusing means 108, 110 performing focusing of the two optical systems 101R, 101L as one body; and focus adjustment means 109, 112 performing individual focus adjustment of one optical system of the two optical systems. The imaging apparatus has control means 17 that detects mounting of the stereo lens device on the imaging apparatus, and performs notification of urging a user to perform focus adjustment with the stereo lens device mounted on the imaging apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device and a stereo lens device suitable for capturing stereoscopic images that can be viewed stereoscopically. [Background technology]

[0002] A stereo lens device that enables the acquisition of stereo images by imaging uses two optical systems arranged in parallel so as to have parallax between them. Patent Document 1 discloses a stereo lens device in which two optical systems (fisheye lenses) are arranged in parallel and two reflecting members are placed within each optical system to bend the optical path. By bending the optical path, it is possible to ensure the base length between the object-side lens groups in the two optical systems while narrowing the gap between the image-side lens groups, so that the image circles of the two optical systems can be formed on a single image sensor in an interchangeable lens imaging device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-51282 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the stereo lens device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the amount and direction of tilt of the image sensor due to manufacturing errors differs for each imaging device to which the lens device is attached, so it is necessary to adjust (correct) the focus difference between the two optical systems for each imaging device. However, there is a risk that the user will not notice the focus difference between the two optical systems.

[0005] The present invention provides a stereo lens device that can prompt a user to adjust the focus difference between two optical systems for each imaging device attached to the stereo lens device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an imaging device is provided with a detachable and communicable stereo lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, a focusing unit that focuses the two optical systems together, and a focus adjustment unit that adjusts the focus of one of the two optical systems independently. The imaging device is characterized by having an attachment detection unit that detects that the stereo lens device has been attached to the imaging device, and a control unit that issues a notification urging the user to adjust the focus while the stereo lens device is attached.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a stereo lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, detachably mounted on an imaging device so as to be able to communicate with the imaging device. The stereo lens device includes a focusing unit that focuses the two optical systems together, a focus adjusting unit that adjusts the focus of one of the two optical systems independently, a mounting detection unit that detects that the stereo lens device is mounted on the imaging device, and a lens control unit that, when the stereo lens device is mounted on an imaging device that can notify the user to adjust the focus, transmits information to the imaging device indicating that focus adjustment is possible.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention provides a control method for an imaging device to which a stereo lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, a focusing unit that enables integrated focusing of the two optical systems, and a focus adjustment unit that enables independent focus adjustment of one of the two optical systems is detachably and communicably attached. The control method includes the steps of detecting that the stereo lens device has been attached to the imaging device, and issuing a notification to the user urging the user to adjust the focus while the stereo lens device is attached.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a control method applied to a stereo lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, detachably and communicably attached to an imaging device, the stereo lens device including a focusing unit that enables integrated focusing of the two optical systems, and a focus adjustment unit that enables independent focus adjustment of one of the two optical systems. The control method includes the steps of: detecting attachment of the stereo lens device to the imaging device; and, when the stereo lens device is attached to an imaging device capable of notifying the user to adjust focus, transmitting information to the imaging device indicating that focus adjustment is possible. Note that a program for causing a computer to execute processing according to each of the above control methods also constitutes another aspect of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to prompt the user to adjust the focus difference between the two optical systems for each imaging device to which the stereo lens device is attached. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a stereo camera system including an interchangeable lens and a camera according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a camera control unit and a lens control unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a left-right relative focus difference in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing a notification process in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a notification process in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] 11 is a flowchart showing a notification process according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a notification process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing a focus difference adjustment process in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart showing a focus difference adjustment process in the sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [Example]

[0013] 1 shows the configuration of a stereo camera system in which an interchangeable lens 100 serving as a stereo lens device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is detachably attached to a camera 10 serving as an imaging device. The camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 each have a camera mount 24 and a lens mount 103 equipped with electrical contacts for supplying power from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100 and for mutual communication. The camera 10 has an image sensor 11 that photoelectrically converts subject images formed by two optical systems within the interchangeable lens 100, namely a right-eye lens unit 101R and a left-eye lens unit 101L, and outputs electrical signals.

[0014] The camera 10 also has an A / D converter 12 that converts the analog electrical signal output from the image sensor 11 into a digital signal, and an image processor 13 that performs various image processing on the digital signal to generate an image. The image generated by the image processor 13 is displayed on a display 14 and recorded on a recording medium 18.

[0015] Furthermore, the camera 10 has an operation unit (operation means) 15 that includes a power switch for turning the power on and off, an image capture switch for starting image capture (image recording), and a selection / setting switch for setting various menus. A camera control unit 17 as a camera control means controls the image processing unit 13 and communication with the interchangeable lens 100 in response to signals from the operation unit 15.

[0016] In the interchangeable lens 100, the right eye lens unit 101R and the left eye lens unit 101L each have prisms 106R, 107R, 106L, and 107L that change the direction of the optical axis by 90 degrees through reflection, and a right aperture unit 102R and a left aperture unit 102L. By using the prisms 106R, 107R, 106L, and 107L, the distance between the optical axes on the image side of the right eye lens unit 101R and the left eye lens unit 101L can be made shorter than the distance between the optical axes (baseline length) on the object side. This allows the image circles formed by the right eye lens unit 101R and the left eye lens unit 101L to be formed on the single image sensor 11 of the camera 10, and two images that can be viewed stereoscopically with parallax from each other can be acquired through the image sensor 11.

[0017] The interchangeable lens 100 also has a lens control unit 104 as a lens control means that controls the aperture units 102R and 102L in response to a control signal received from the camera control unit 17 via communication.

[0018] 2 shows the internal configuration of the camera control unit 17 and the lens control unit 104, and the configuration of the aperture and focus drive system provided in the interchangeable lens 100. The camera control unit 17 and the lens control unit 104 are electrically connected via terminals provided on the camera mount 24 and the lens mount 103.

[0019] The LCLK terminal (1-1) is a terminal for a communication clock signal output from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. The DCL terminal (1-2) is a terminal for communication data output from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. The DLC terminal (1-3) is a terminal for communication data output from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10.

[0020] The MIF terminals (1-4) are terminals for detecting that an interchangeable lens 100 has been attached to the camera 10. The camera microcomputer 20, which is a microcomputer within the camera control unit 17, detects that an interchangeable lens 100 has been attached to the camera 10 based on the voltage of the MIF terminals.

[0021] The TYPE terminal (1-5) is a terminal for detecting the type of interchangeable lens 100 attached to the camera 10. The camera microcomputer 20 detects the type of interchangeable lens 100 attached to the camera 10 based on the voltage of the TYPE terminal. The voltage of the TYPE terminal is generated by a lens type voltage generation unit 113 in the lens control unit 104.

[0022] The VBAT terminal (1-6) is a terminal for supplying drive power (VM) used for various operations excluding communication control from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. The VDD terminal (1-7) is a terminal for supplying communication control power (VDD) used for communication control from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. The DGND terminal (1-8) is a terminal for connecting the communication control systems of the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 to ground. The PGND terminal (1-9) is a terminal for connecting mechanical drive systems including motors and the like provided in the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 to ground.

[0023] The camera 10 of this embodiment is selectively fitted with a plurality of types of interchangeable lenses 100 that differ from one another in terms of communication voltage with the camera 10. In the following explanation, we will describe a case where the types of interchangeable lenses 100 that the camera 10 identifies based on the voltage of the TYPE terminal include a first interchangeable lens and a second interchangeable lens that has a different communication voltage from the first interchangeable lens.

[0024] A camera power supply unit 21 provided in the camera control unit 17 converts the battery voltage supplied from a battery (not shown) mounted in the camera 10 into a voltage required for the operation of each circuit. In this case, the power supply unit 21 generates voltages V1, V2, V3, and VM.

[0025] The first voltage V1 is a power supply voltage (VDD) for communication control of the first and second interchangeable lenses, and is also a communication voltage for the first interchangeable lens. The second voltage V2 is a communication voltage for the second interchangeable lens. The third voltage V3 is a power supply voltage for operating the camera microcomputer 20. VM is a power supply voltage for driving the first and second interchangeable lenses.

[0026] When the power switch 22 is turned on, the camera microcomputer 20 starts supplying VDD and VM from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. When the power switch 22 is turned off, the camera microcomputer 20 stops supplying VDD and VM from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0027] The camera microcomputer 20 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 via a voltage conversion unit 23. The camera microcomputer 20 has an LCLK_OUT terminal that outputs a communication clock signal, a DCL_OUT terminal that outputs communication data to the interchangeable lens, and a DLC_IN terminal that receives input of communication data from the interchangeable lens. The communication clock signal and communication data correspond to communication signals.

[0028] The camera microcontroller 20 also has a MIF_IN terminal for detecting the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100, a TYPE_IN terminal for identifying the type of interchangeable lens 100, and a CNT_V_OUT terminal for outputting a communication voltage switching signal to the voltage conversion unit 23.

[0029] Furthermore, the camera microcomputer 20 has a CNT_VDD_OUT terminal that outputs a power supply signal for the power switch 22, a connection terminal with the image processing unit 13, and a connection terminal with the operation unit 15. The camera microcomputer 20 also controls the operation of the display unit 14 via the display unit control unit 25.

[0030] The lens microcomputer 111, which is a microcomputer within the lens control unit 104, communicates with the camera microcomputer 20 via the voltage conversion unit 23 described above. The lens microcomputer 111 has an LCLK_IN terminal that receives an input of a communication clock signal, a DLC_OUT terminal that outputs communication data to the camera 10, and a DCL_IN terminal that receives input of communication data from the camera 10. The lens microcomputer 111 also has connection terminals with the aperture driving units 105R / 105L, the focus driving unit 110, and the focus difference adjustment driving unit 112. The lens control unit 104 also has a lens power supply unit 114.

[0031] The detection of attachment of the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10 will now be described. The MIF_IN terminal of the camera microcomputer 20 is pulled up to the power supply by resistor R2 (100 kΩ), so its voltage value is H (High) when no lens is attached. However, when an interchangeable lens (first or second interchangeable lens) 100 is attached, the MIF_IN terminal is connected to GND at the interchangeable lens 100, so its voltage value becomes L (Low) when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached, regardless of the type of interchangeable lens 100.

[0032] Meanwhile, the interchangeable lens 100 has aperture drivers 105R and 105L that drive actuators that operate the aperture units 102R and 102L. The interchangeable lens 100 also has right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L held by a focus unit 108. By moving the focus unit 108 in the optical axis direction using a focus driver 110, focusing is performed by moving the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L as a whole in the optical axis direction. The focus unit 108 and focus driver 110 constitute a focusing means.

[0033] Furthermore, the interchangeable lens 100 has a focus difference adjustment unit 109 and a focus difference adjustment drive section 112 for electrically adjusting the relative focus difference between the left and right. The focus difference adjustment unit 109 and the focus difference adjustment drive section 112 constitute a focus adjustment means.

[0034] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the relative left-right focus difference, which is the difference in focus between the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L. In the interchangeable lens 100 of this embodiment, a relative left-right focus difference may occur between the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L due to variations in the tilt direction and amount of tilt of the image sensor 11 caused by individual differences in the camera 10, or due to a decrease in reliability caused by temperature, humidity, impact, etc. FIG. 3(a) illustrates an ideal case in which the image sensor 11 is not tilted. FIG. 3(b) illustrates a case in which the image sensor 11 is tilted. In the case of FIG. 3(b), even if the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L are moved together, it is not possible to simultaneously focus on each. In other words, a relative left-right focus difference occurs as a deviation in the focus state between the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L.

[0035] For this reason, the interchangeable lens 100 of this embodiment has a focus difference adjustment mechanism (focus difference adjustment unit 109 and focus difference adjustment drive unit 112) that allows the user to adjust (correct) the relative left-right focus difference between the right eye lens unit 101R and the left eye lens unit 101L. In the focus difference adjustment mechanism, an eccentric roller that is connected via a screw to the focus difference adjustment unit 109 that holds the right eye lens unit 101R is rotated by a motor of the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112. This makes it possible to adjust the focus, that is, adjust the relative left-right focus difference, by moving the right eye lens unit 101R independently in the optical axis direction without moving the left eye lens unit 101L in the optical axis direction.

[0036] The flowcharts in Figures 4(a) and (b) show the processing (control method) executed in this embodiment. Figure 4(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and Figure 4(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program.

[0037] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104, which serves as the lens-side attachment detection means, checks in step S401 of Fig. 4(a) whether or not it has received a camera ID from the camera control unit 17 (whether or not the interchangeable lens 100 has been attached to the camera 10). At this time, the lens control unit 104 checks from the camera ID whether or not the camera 10 has a function for sending notifications, which will be described later.

[0038] Upon receiving the camera ID, the lens control unit 104 proceeds to step S402 and transmits to the camera control unit 17 a lens ID indicating whether or not the interchangeable lens 100 is a stereo lens device having a focus unit 108 including a focus difference adjustment mechanism. Lens ID = 1 indicates that the attached interchangeable lens is a stereo lens device having a focus unit 108 including a focus difference adjustment mechanism (in other words, the focus of the right eye lens unit 101R can be adjusted independently). Lens ID = 0 indicates that the attached interchangeable lens is not a stereo lens device having a focus unit 108 including a focus difference adjustment mechanism. This process then ends.

[0039] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17, which serves as the camera-side attachment detection means, determines in step S403 of Fig. 4(b) whether MIF_IN = Lo or not, that is, whether the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10. If MIF_IN ≠ Lo, the camera control unit 17 repeats the determination of step S403, and if MIF_IN = Lo, in step S404 it sends the camera ID to the lens control unit 104 and proceeds to step S405.

[0040] In step S405, the camera control unit 17 determines whether or not a lens ID has been received. If the lens ID has not been received, the camera control unit 17 repeats the determination in step S405, and if the lens ID has been received, the camera control unit 17 proceeds to step S406.

[0041] In step S406, the camera control unit 17 determines whether or not the lens ID is 1. If the lens ID is 0, the camera control unit 17 ends this process, and if the lens ID is 1, the camera control unit 17 proceeds to step S407.

[0042] In step S407, the camera control unit 17 notifies the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference. Specifically, a message or icon prompting the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference is displayed on the display unit 14 via the display control unit 25. An example of a message is "Please adjust the focus of the right eye lens." The notification prompting the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference may be a voice message from a speaker (not shown). Then, this process ends.

[0043] According to this embodiment, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the user can be prompted to adjust the left-right relative focus difference. [Example]

[0044] In the second embodiment, a notification urging the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference is sent only if the left-right relative focus difference adjustment has not been performed in the past when the interchangeable lens 100 was attached to the camera 10. The flowcharts in Figures 5(a) and 5(b) show the processing executed in this embodiment. Figure 5(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and Figure 5(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program.

[0045] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104 performs the processes of steps S501 and S502 in Fig. 5(a). The processes of steps S501 and S502 are the same as the processes of steps S401 and S402 in Fig. 4(a).

[0046] In step S503 after step S502, the lens control unit 104 transmits information about the implementation history of left-right relative focus difference adjustments made when the lens was attached to the camera 10 in the past to the camera control unit 17. Then, this process ends.

[0047] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17 performs the processes of steps S504 to S507 in Fig. 5(b). The processes of steps S504 to S507 are the same as the processes of steps S403 to S406 in Fig. 4(b).

[0048] If lens ID=1 in step S507, the camera control unit 17 determines in step S508 whether or not information on the implementation history of left-right relative focus difference adjustment has been received from the lens control unit 104. If the camera control unit 17 has not received the implementation history information, it repeats the determination in step S507, and if it has received the information, it proceeds to step S509.

[0049] In step S509, the camera control unit 17 determines whether the information on the implementation history of left-right relative focus difference adjustment received in step S508 indicates that it has been performed, that is, whether left-right relative focus difference adjustment has been performed in the past on the currently attached interchangeable lens 100. If it has been performed, the process proceeds to step S510; if it has not been performed, the process ends.

[0050] In step S510, the camera control unit 17 notifies (displays) the user to adjust the left-right relative focus difference, similarly to step S407 in Fig. 4(b), and then ends this process.

[0051] In this embodiment, it is possible to prompt the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference in a combination of an interchangeable lens 100 and a camera 10 for which the relative left-right focus difference adjustment has not been performed in the past. [Example]

[0052] In the third embodiment, when an external force is applied to at least one of the right-eye and left-eye lens units 101R and 101L (the focus unit 108 or the focus difference adjustment unit 109), a notification is issued to prompt the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference. The flowcharts in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) show the processing executed in this embodiment. FIG. 6(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and FIG. 6(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program. In this embodiment, a notification is issued to prompt the user to adjust the relative left-right focus difference in response to detection of loss of synchronization of the stepping motor of the focus drive unit 110 or the stepping motor of the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 due to the action of an external force.

[0053] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104 performs the processes of steps S601 and S602 in Fig. 6(a). The processes of steps S601 and S602 are the same as the processes of steps S401 and S402 in Fig. 4(a).

[0054] In step S603 after step S602, the lens control unit 104 determines whether a step-out has occurred in the stepping motor of the focus drive unit 110 or the stepping motor of the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112. Specifically, a light-shielding blade is attached to the rotation shaft of each stepping motor, and the light-shielding blade and a photointerrupter detect whether the stepping motor rotates at a timing other than during full-lens focus drive or left-right relative focus difference adjustment. By detecting the rotation of this stepping motor, it is possible to determine whether a step-out has occurred, in other words, whether the focus unit 108 or the focus difference adjustment unit 109 has received an external force. The light-shielding blade and the photointerrupter constitute an external force detection means.

[0055] Note that instead of the light-shielding blades and photointerrupter, an external force sensor that can directly detect the action of an external force may be used, and if the action of an external force equal to or greater than a predetermined magnitude is detected, it may be determined that step-out has occurred in the stepping motor. If the lens control unit 104 has not determined that step-out has occurred in the stepping motor of the focus drive unit 110 or the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 (hereinafter referred to as focus step-out), it repeats the processing of step S603, and if it has determined that focus step-out has occurred, it proceeds to step S604.

[0056] In step S604, the lens control unit 104 notifies the camera control unit 17 that a focus step-out has occurred, and then ends this process.

[0057] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17 performs the processes of steps S605 to S608 in Fig. 6(b). The processes of steps S605 to S608 are the same as the processes of steps S403 to S406 in Fig. 4(b).

[0058] If the lens ID is 1 in step S608, the camera control unit 17 determines in step S609 whether or not a focus step-out occurrence notification has been received from the lens control unit 104. If the camera control unit 17 has not received a focus step-out occurrence notification, it repeats the process of step S608, and if it has received a focus step-out occurrence notification, it proceeds to step S610.

[0059] In step S610, the camera control unit 17 notifies (displays) the user to adjust the left-right relative focus difference, similarly to step S407 in Fig. 4(b), and then ends this process.

[0060] In this embodiment, when a relative left-right focus difference occurs due to the action of an external force, the user can be prompted to adjust the relative left-right focus difference. [Example]

[0061] In the fourth embodiment, a notification is sent to prompt the user to adjust the left-right relative focus difference after pointing the interchangeable lens 100 at a subject. The flowcharts in Figures 7(a) and 7(b) show the processing executed in this embodiment. Figure 7(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and Figure 7(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program.

[0062] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104 performs the processes of steps S701 and S702 in Fig. 7(a). The processes of steps S701 and S702 are the same as the processes of steps S401 and S402 in Fig. 4(a).

[0063] In step S703 after step S702, the lens control unit 104 determines whether or not an instruction to adjust the relative left-right focus difference has been received from the camera control unit 17. The instruction to adjust the relative left-right focus difference is transmitted from the camera control unit 17 to the lens control unit 104 when the user operates a focus difference adjustment execution button (not shown) provided on the operation unit 15 of the camera 10. The focus difference adjustment execution button may be a physical button or may be provided on the touch panel of the display unit 14. If the lens control unit 104 has not received the instruction, it repeats the determination of step S702, and if the lens control unit 104 has received the instruction, it proceeds to step S704.

[0064] In step S704, the lens control unit 104 adjusts the relative left-right focus difference by driving the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112. Then, this process ends.

[0065] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17 performs the processes of steps S705 to S708 in Fig. 7(b). The processes of steps S705 to S708 are the same as the processes of steps S403 to S406 in Fig. 4(b).

[0066] If lens ID=1 in step S708, the camera control unit 17 notifies (displays) the user in step S709 to point the interchangeable lens 100 at the subject and adjust the left-right relative focus difference. Specifically, a message or icon is displayed on the display unit 14 of the camera 10 to prompt the user to point the interchangeable lens 100 at the subject and adjust the left-right relative focus difference. The message may be something like "Point the lens at the subject and press the focus difference adjustment button."

[0067] Next, in step S710, the camera control unit 17 determines whether or not the focus difference adjustment execution button has been operated by the user. If the focus difference adjustment execution button has not been operated, the determination of step S710 is repeated, and if the button has been operated, the process proceeds to step S11.

[0068] In step S711, the camera control unit 17 transmits an instruction to adjust the left-right relative focus difference to the lens control unit 104. Then, this process ends.

[0069] According to this embodiment, it is possible to not only prompt the user to adjust the left-right relative focus difference, but also to notify the user that it is necessary to point the interchangeable lens 100 toward the subject when adjusting the left-right relative focus difference, thereby ensuring that the left-right relative focus difference adjustment for the subject can be performed reliably. [Example]

[0070] In the fifth embodiment, a case will be described in which the camera 10 is capable of storing an adjustment amount (hereinafter referred to as a focus difference adjustment amount) as information relating to the left-right relative focus difference adjustment for each individual interchangeable lens 100. The focus difference adjustment amount is the drive amount of the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112. In this embodiment, when an interchangeable lens 100 in which a focus difference adjustment amount is stored is attached to the camera 10, the interchangeable lens 100 is made to perform the left-right relative focus difference adjustment using the stored focus difference adjustment amount.

[0071] The flowcharts in Figures 8(a) and 8(b) show the processing executed in this embodiment. Figure 8(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and Figure 8(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program.

[0072] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104 performs the processes of steps S801 to S803 in Fig. 8(a). The processes of steps S801 to S803 are the same as the processes of steps S701 to S703 in Fig. 7(a).

[0073] In step S803, the lens control unit 104 receives the instruction to adjust the left-right relative focus difference, and in step S804, determines whether or not it has received a focus difference adjustment amount from the camera control unit 17. If it has received a focus difference adjustment amount, the process proceeds to step S805; if it has not received a focus difference adjustment amount, the process proceeds to step S806.

[0074] In step S805, the lens control unit 104 adjusts the relative left-right focus difference by driving the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 using the instructed focus difference adjustment amount, and then ends this process.

[0075] In step S806, the lens control unit 104 drives the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 to adjust the relative focus difference between the left and right.

[0076] Next, in step S807, the lens control unit 104 transmits the focus difference adjustment amount obtained in step S806 to the camera control unit 17 along with individual information (such as the manufacturing number and serial number) of the interchangeable lens 100. This process then ends. As will be described later, the camera control unit 17 stores (saves) the focus difference adjustment amount in the memory 19, which serves as storage means within the camera 10, in association with the received individual information of the interchangeable lens 100.

[0077] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17 performs the processes of steps S808 to S811 in Fig. 8(b). The processes of steps S808 to S811 are the same as the processes of steps S705 to S708 in Fig. 7(b).

[0078] If lens ID=1 in step S811, the camera control unit 17 determines in step S812 whether or not individual information about the attached interchangeable lens 100 has been saved in the memory 19 in the camera 10. If saved, the process proceeds to step S813, and if not saved, the process proceeds to step S814.

[0079] In step S813, the camera control unit 17 transmits the focus difference adjustment amount, which has been stored in association with the individual information of the interchangeable lens 100 that has already been stored, to the lens control unit 104.

[0080] The processing in steps S814 to S816 is the same as the processing in steps S709 to S711 in FIG. 7(b).

[0081] In step S817 after step S816, the camera control unit 17 determines whether or not it has received the individual information and focus difference adjustment amount of the interchangeable lens 100 from the lens control unit 104. If it has not received these, it repeats the determination of step S817, and if it has received them, it proceeds to step S818.

[0082] In step S818, the camera control unit 17 stores the focus difference adjustment amount in the memory 19 in the camera 10 in association with the received individual information of the interchangeable lens 100. Then, this process ends.

[0083] In this embodiment, if a left-right relative focus difference adjustment has been performed in the past for a combination of camera 10 and interchangeable lens 100, when that combination is used again, the left-right relative focus difference adjustment can be performed quickly using the focus difference adjustment amount stored in camera 10. [Example]

[0084] In the sixth embodiment, a case will be described in which the interchangeable lens 100 is capable of storing the focus difference adjustment amount for each individual camera 10. In this embodiment, if the focus difference adjustment amount for the camera 10 to which the interchangeable lens 100 is attached is stored in the interchangeable lens 100, the interchangeable lens 100 performs left-right relative focus difference adjustment using the stored focus difference adjustment amount.

[0085] The flowcharts in Figures 9(a) and 9(b) show the processing executed in this embodiment. Figure 9(a) shows the processing executed by the lens control unit 104 (lens microcomputer 111) according to a program, and Figure 9(b) shows the processing executed by the camera control unit 17 (camera microcomputer 20) according to a program.

[0086] When the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens control unit 104 performs the processes of steps S901 to S903 in Fig. 9(a). The processes of steps S901 to S903 are the same as the processes of steps S701 to S703 in Fig. 7(a).

[0087] In step S903, the lens control unit 104 receives the instruction to adjust the left-right relative focus difference, and in step S904 determines whether or not individual information about the camera 10 attached to the interchangeable lens 100 has been saved. The individual information about the camera 10 is included in the camera ID received in step S901. If the individual information about the camera 10 has been saved, the process proceeds to step S905; if not, the process proceeds to step S906.

[0088] In step S905, the lens control unit 104 adjusts the relative left-right focus difference by driving the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 using the focus difference adjustment amount stored in association with the individual information of the camera 10. Then, this process ends.

[0089] In step S906, the lens control unit 104 drives the focus difference adjustment drive unit 112 to adjust the relative focus difference between the left and right lenses.

[0090] Next, in step S907, the lens control unit 104 stores the amount of focus difference adjustment made in step S906 in the memory 115, which serves as storage means within the interchangeable lens 100, in association with the individual information of the camera 10. Then, this process ends.

[0091] On the other hand, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera control unit 17 performs the processes of steps S908 to S912 in Fig. 9(b). The processes of steps S908 to S912 are the same as the processes of steps S808 to S812 in Fig. 8(b).

[0092] If the camera control unit 17 determines in step S912 that the individual information of the attached interchangeable lens 100 has been saved in the camera 10, then in step S913 it sends an instruction to adjust the left-right relative focus difference to the lens control unit 104. Then, this process ends.

[0093] The processing in steps S914 to S916 is the same as the processing in steps S814 to S816 in Fig. 8(b). After step S916, this processing ends.

[0094] In this embodiment, if a left-right relative focus difference adjustment has been performed in the past for a combination of camera 10 and interchangeable lens 100, when that combination is used again, the left-right relative focus difference adjustment can be performed quickly using the focus difference adjustment amount stored in the interchangeable lens 100.

[0095] In each of the above embodiments, the camera 10 has been described as having a single image sensor 11, but the image sensor of other embodiments may have one image sensor for each of the two optical systems of the stereo lens device (two in total).

[0096] In addition, in the above-described embodiments, a notification is given to prompt the user to adjust the focus difference between the two optical systems, but information indicating the focus difference between the two optical systems may also be notified. For example, the difference between the defocus amount of the optical system for the right eye and the defocus amount of the optical system for the left eye calculated from the output of the image sensor may be calculated, and information indicating the focus difference may be displayed based on the difference.

[0097] The above embodiment includes the following configurations.

[0098] (Configuration 1) An imaging device to which a stereo lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, a focusing means for performing focusing on the two optical systems as a whole, and a focus adjusting means for performing focus adjustment on one of the two optical systems alone is detachably and communicably mounted, a mounting detection unit for detecting mounting of the stereo lens device to the imaging device; and a control unit that notifies a user to adjust the focus while the stereo lens device is attached. (Configuration 2) The imaging device according to configuration 1, wherein the control means issues the notification in response to receiving information from the stereo lens device indicating that the stereo lens device is capable of performing the focus adjustment. (Configuration 3) The imaging device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the control means issues the notification when it receives information from the stereo lens device indicating that the focus adjustment has not been performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device. (Configuration 4) The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the control means performs the notification when it receives information from the stereo lens device indicating that the stereo lens device has been subjected to an external force. (Configuration 5) 5. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the control means also issues, as the notification, a notification urging the user to point the stereo lens device toward a subject. (Configuration 6) an operation means operated by a user to instruct the focus adjustment; 6. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the control means transmits an instruction to perform the focus adjustment to the stereo lens device in response to an operation of the operation means. (Configuration 7) The control means When receiving information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device from the stereo lens device, storing the information about the focus adjustment in a storage means provided in the imaging device, 7. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein when the stereo lens device in the combination is subsequently attached to the imaging device, the information regarding the focus adjustment stored in the storage means is transmitted to the stereo lens device. (Configuration 8) The imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that, when information regarding the focus adjustment already performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device is stored in the stereo lens device, when the stereo lens device in the combination is attached to the imaging device, the control means instructs the stereo lens device to perform the focus adjustment based on the stored information regarding the focus adjustment. (Configuration 9) A stereo lens device having two optical systems arranged in parallel and detachably and communicably attached to an imaging device, a focusing means for performing integral focusing of the two optical systems; a focus adjusting means for adjusting the focus of one of the two optical systems alone; a mounting detection unit for detecting mounting of the stereo lens device to the imaging device; and a lens control means for transmitting information indicating that the focus adjustment is possible to the imaging device when the stereo lens device is attached to the imaging device that is capable of notifying the user to adjust the focus. (Configuration 10) The imaging device described in configuration 9, wherein the lens control means transmits information indicating whether the focus adjustment has been performed to the imaging device that performs the notification when the focus adjustment has not been performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device. (Configuration 11) an external force detection means for detecting that the stereo lens device has received an external force; The stereo lens device according to configuration 9 or 10, wherein the lens control means transmits to the imaging device that performs the notification when the stereo lens device receives the external force, information indicating that the external force has been detected. (Configuration 12) 12. The stereo lens device according to any one of configurations 9 to 11, wherein the lens control means performs the focus adjustment in response to receiving an instruction to perform the focus adjustment from the imaging device. (Configuration 13) The lens control means transmitting information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device to the imaging device; The stereo lens device according to any one of configurations 9 to 12, characterized in that when stored information regarding the focus adjustment is received from the imaging device in the combination, the focus adjustment is performed based on the information regarding the focus adjustment. (Configuration 14) The lens control means a storage means for storing information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in a combination of the stereo lens device and the imaging device, The stereo lens device according to any one of configurations 9 to 13, characterized in that when the stereo lens device is attached to the imaging device in the combination, the focus adjustment is performed based on the stored information regarding the focus adjustment. (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0099] The embodiments described above are merely representative examples, and various modifications and changes can be made to each embodiment when implementing the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 10 Camera 11 Image sensor 14 Display section 17 Camera control unit 100 interchangeable lenses 101R Right Eye Lens Unit 101L Left eye lens unit 104 Lens control unit 108 Focus Unit 110 Focus drive unit 109 Focus adjustment unit 112 Focus difference adjustment drive unit

Claims

1. An imaging device to which a lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, a focusing means for performing focusing on the two optical systems as a whole, and a focus adjusting means for performing focus adjustment on one of the two optical systems alone is detachably and communicably mounted, an attachment detection means for detecting attachment of the lens device to the imaging device; and a control unit that notifies a user to adjust the focus while the lens device is attached.

2. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit issues the notification in response to receiving, from the lens device, information indicating that the lens device is capable of the focus adjustment.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit issues the notification when it receives information from the lens device indicating that the focus adjustment has not been performed in a combination of the lens device and the imaging device.

4. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit issues the notification when it receives, from the lens device, information indicating that the lens device has received an external force.

5. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit also issues a notification to prompt the user to point the lens device toward a subject.

6. an operation means operated by a user to instruct the focus adjustment; 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means transmits an instruction to perform the focus adjustment to the lens device in response to an operation of the operation means.

7. The control means When receiving information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in a combination of the lens device and the imaging device from the lens device, storing the information about the focus adjustment in a storage means provided in the imaging device; 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein when the lens device in the combination is subsequently attached to the imaging device, the information regarding the focus adjustment stored in the storage means is transmitted to the lens device.

8. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein, when information regarding the focus adjustment already performed in a combination of the lens device and the imaging device is stored in the lens device, when the lens device in the combination is attached to the imaging device, the control means instructs the lens device to perform the focus adjustment based on the stored information regarding the focus adjustment.

9. A lens device having two optical systems arranged in parallel and detachably and communicably attached to an imaging device, a focusing means for performing integral focusing of the two optical systems; a focus adjusting means for adjusting the focus of one of the two optical systems alone; an attachment detection means for detecting attachment of the lens device to the imaging device; and a control means for transmitting information indicating that focus adjustment is possible to the imaging device when the lens device is attached to the imaging device that is capable of notifying the user to adjust the focus.

10. The lens device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit transmits information indicating whether or not the focus adjustment has been performed to the imaging device that performs the notification when the focus adjustment has not been performed in a combination of the lens device and the imaging device.

11. an external force detection means for detecting that the lens device has received an external force; The lens device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit transmits to the imaging device that performs the notification when the lens device receives the external force, information indicating that the external force has been detected.

12. 10. The lens device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit performs the focus adjustment in response to receiving an instruction to perform the focus adjustment from the imaging device.

13. The control means transmitting information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in the combination of the lens device and the imaging device to the imaging device; 10. The lens device according to claim 9, wherein, when stored information regarding the focus adjustment is received from the imaging device in the combination, the lens device performs the focus adjustment based on the information regarding the focus adjustment.

14. The control means a storage means for storing information about the focus adjustment that has been performed in a combination of the lens device and the imaging device, The lens device according to claim 9 , wherein when the lens device is attached to the imaging device in the combination, the focus adjustment is performed based on the stored information regarding the focus adjustment.

15. A control method for an imaging device to which a lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, a focusing unit that enables the two optical systems to be focused together, and a focus adjustment unit that enables the focus adjustment of one of the two optical systems independently is detachably and communicably attached, the method comprising: detecting attachment of the lens device to the imaging device; and issuing a notification to prompt the user to adjust the focus while the lens device is attached.

16. A control method for a lens device having two parallel-arranged optical systems, detachably and communicably attached to an imaging device, and having a focusing unit that enables the two optical systems to be focused together, and a focus adjustment unit that enables independent focus adjustment of one of the two optical systems, comprising: detecting attachment of the lens device to the imaging device; a step of transmitting, when the lens device is attached to the imaging device that is capable of notifying the user to adjust the focus, information indicating that the focus adjustment is possible to the imaging device.

17. 16. A program causing a computer of the imaging device to execute a process according to the control method of claim 15.

18. 17. A program for causing a computer of the lens device to execute a process according to the control method of claim 16.

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