Imaging apparatus and control method therefor

By designing an image acquisition device containing a dual optical system, using focal length detection means to perform automatic focus control, and focusing setting through the target position input by the user, the problems of complex operation and difficult to achieve focus notification in the prior art are solved, and the fast and accurate focus and user-friendly notification mechanism of the dual optical system are realized.

JP2025073500APending Publication Date: 2025-05-13CANON KK
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2023184357
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-10-27
Publication Date
2025-05-13

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In the prior art, the diopter adjustment and focus adjustment functions of the dual-optical system are switched by a single operation member, and the operation is complex and fast and accurate focus adjustment is difficult to achieve. In addition, during the autofocus process, it is necessary to set the target focus positions of the two optical systems separately, and consider the parabola of the optical system, making it difficult for users to get notification that the autofocus is completed.

Method used

An image acquisition device is designed, which includes two parallel optical systems. The image acquisition device captures two subject images and uses focal length detection means to detect the focal length state, perform focal length control of each optical system, and focus setting is performed through the target position input by the user, notifying the user when the focal length control is completed.

Benefits of technology

The simplification and accuracy of the autofocus process of the dual-optical system is achieved, and users can easily obtain notifications of the dual-optical system focus completion, thereby improving the quality and user experience of 3D imaging.

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Abstract

To easily perform AF of two optical systems and appropriately notify a user of AF completion.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus 100 includes: an imaging element 120 that captures two subject images respectively formed by a first optical system 201R and a second optical system 201 L which are arranged in parallel; focus detection means 180 that detects a focus state using a signal output from the imaging element; control means 190 that performs focus control of each of the first and second optical systems on the basis of the focus state; and input means 161 that allows a user to input a first target position in an imaging range through the first optical system. The control means performs focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, sets a second target position corresponding to the first target position in an imaging range through the second optical system, performs focus control of the second optical system according to the focus state at the second target position, and notifies the user of a completion of the focus control.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3
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Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device capable of stereoscopic imaging. [Background technology]

[0002] As an imaging lens that enables stereoscopic imaging, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose an imaging lens in which two optical systems are arranged in parallel and the image circles of the two optical systems are formed on a single imaging element. The subject images formed by the two optical systems are captured to generate two captured images having a parallax between them, and the user can view the image with a stereoscopic effect by observing them with the right and left eyes.

[0003] When capturing an image using such an imaging lens, it is necessary for each of the two optical systems to be focused on the same subject. Patent Document 3 discloses binoculars in which the diopter adjustment of the left and right optical systems is performed by moving one of the optical systems, the focus adjustment is performed by moving the left and right optical systems simultaneously, and these functions are switched by a single operating member. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-3022 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2012-113281 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2009-175498 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in a configuration in which the diopter adjustment function and the focus adjustment function are switched by operating a single operating member as in Patent Document 3, the operation is complicated, making it difficult to perform quick and accurate focus adjustment.

[0006] In addition, when adjusting the focus of two optical systems for the same subject by autofocus (AF), it is necessary to set AF target positions corresponding to the position of the subject within the imaging range through each of the two optical systems individually while taking into account the parallax of these optical systems. Furthermore, it is desirable to appropriately notify the user that the AF of the two optical systems has been completed.

[0007] The present invention provides an imaging device that can easily perform AF suitable for stereoscopic imaging of two optical systems and can properly notify a user that AF has been completed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] An imaging device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging element for capturing two subject images formed by a first optical system and a second optical system arranged in parallel, a focus detection means for detecting a focus state using a signal output from the imaging element, a control means for performing focus control of each of the first and second optical systems based on the focus state, and an input means for allowing a user to input a first target position within an imaging range through the first optical system. The control means performs focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, sets a second target position corresponding to the first target position within an imaging range through the second optical system, and controls the focus of the second optical system according to the focus state of the second target position, and notifies the user when focus control is completed.

[0009] A control method according to another aspect of the present invention is applied to an imaging device having an image sensor for capturing two subject images formed by a first optical system and a second optical system arranged in parallel, and detecting a focus state using a signal output from the image sensor. The control method includes a step of having a user input a first target position in an imaging range through the first optical system, a step of performing focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, a step of setting a second target position corresponding to the first target position in an imaging range through the second optical system and a step of performing focus control of the second optical system according to the focus state at the second target position, and a step of notifying the user when the focus control is completed. Note that a program for causing a computer of the imaging device to execute a process according to the above control method also constitutes another aspect of the present invention. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, AF suitable for stereoscopic imaging of two optical systems can be easily performed, and the user can be appropriately notified that AF has been completed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a stereoscopic imaging lens used in the imaging device of the embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of a stereoscopic imaging lens and an image circle on an imaging element. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an imaging device according to a first embodiment to which a stereoscopic imaging lens is attached. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a display of a parallax image. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing an AF process in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging device according to a second embodiment to which a stereoscopic imaging lens is attached. [Figure 7] 11 is a flowchart showing an AF process in the third embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing an AF process in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9]13 is a flowchart showing an MF process in the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

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

[0013] The imaging device of this embodiment is detachably equipped with an imaging lens for stereoscopic imaging having a first optical system and a second optical system arranged in parallel with each other at a predetermined distance (base line length). The imaging lens may be provided integrally with the imaging device.

[0014] The first optical system and the second optical system form subject images (image circles) as two optical images on a single imaging element provided in the imaging device. The imaging device captures these two subject images using the imaging element to generate two captured images (a pair of parallax images) having parallax with respect to each other. The captured image for the right eye generated by capturing images through one of the first and second optical systems and the captured image for the left eye generated by capturing images through the other optical system are displayed to the right and left eyes of the user via a display device such as a 3D display or VR goggles. The parallax between the captured images for the right and left eyes allows the user to view an image with a three-dimensional feeling.

[0015] 1 shows the configuration of the imaging lens 200 as viewed from above. The imaging lens 200 has a right-eye optical system 201R as a first optical system and a left-eye optical system 201L as a second optical system. The right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L are each fixed to a lens top base 240 by screw tightening or the like. Note that the left-eye optical system 201L may be the first optical system, and the right-eye optical system 201R may be the second optical system.

[0016] In the following description, the reference numerals in the right-eye optical system 201R will have an R suffix, and the reference numerals in the left-eye optical system 201L will have an L suffix. The R and L suffixes will be omitted for reference numerals in the description that are common to both the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L.

[0017] Each of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L has an effective angle of view of 120° or more. In each optical system, a first optical axis OA1, a second optical axis OA2 perpendicular to the first optical axis OA1 (bent by 90°), and a third optical axis OA3 perpendicular to the second optical axis OA2 (parallel to the first optical axis OA1) are set in order from the object side to the image side. A first lens group 211 having a lens surface 211A convex toward the object side is arranged along the first optical axis OA1, and a second lens group 221 is arranged along the second optical axis OA2. Also, a third lens group 231 is arranged along the third optical axis OA3. Furthermore, each optical system has a first prism 220 that reflects a light beam from the first lens group 211 and guides it to the second lens group 221, and a second prism 230 that reflects a light beam from the second lens group 221 and guides it to the third lens group 231.

[0018] In the following description, the optical axis direction means the direction extending from the object side to the image side, such as the first and third optical axes OA1 and OA3.

[0019] FIG. 2 shows the relationship between the positions of the first and third optical axes OA1, OA3 of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L and the positions of the image circles ICR, ICL on the imaging element 120 in the imaging device when viewed from the object side.

[0020] A right-eye image circle ICR within the effective angle of view is formed by the right-eye optical system 201R in the right region (the region on the left side in the figure) of the imaging element 120. A left-eye image circle ICL within the effective angle of view is formed by the left-eye optical system 201L in the left region (the region on the right side in the figure) of the imaging element 120. The diameter ΦD2 of each image circle and the distance between the centers of the image circles ICR and ICL (i.e., the distance between the third optical axes OA3) are set so that the image circles ICR and ICL do not overlap each other.

[0021] Each optical system may be configured as a full-circle fisheye lens, and a subject image with a field angle range exceeding 180° may be formed as a circular image on the imaging element 120 .

[0022] The distance between the first optical axis OA1R of the right-eye optical system 201R and the first optical axis OA1L of the left-eye optical system 201L is the base length L1, and the longer the base length L1, the stronger the stereoscopic effect that the pair of parallax images gives to the user. For example, the size of the image sensor 120 is 24 mm vertical x 36 mm horizontal, the diameter of the image circle is Φ17 mm, the distance L2 between the third optical axes OA3 is 18 mm, and the length of the second optical axis OA2 is 21 mm. If the optical systems are arranged so that the second optical axis OA2 extends in the left-right direction, the base length L1 shown in FIG. 1 is 60 mm, which is approximately equal to the interpupillary distance of an adult.

[0023] It is said that the angle of view at which a person viewing a pair of parallax images can get a sense of stereoscopic effect is about 120°, but since a field of view of 120° tends to leave a sense of discomfort, the angle of view is often widened to about 180°. In this embodiment, since the effective angle of view exceeds 180°, the diameter ΦD3 of the image circle in the range of the angle of view of 180° is ΦD2>ΦD3 This is the relationship. [Example 1] 3 shows the configuration of a stereoscopic camera system including an imaging lens 200 and an imaging device 100 equipped with an imaging element 120. The imaging lens 200 is detachably attached to the imaging device 100 via a mount (not shown).

[0024] The imaging lens 200 has a lens control unit 209, a first lens driving unit 501, a second lens driving unit 502, an MF ring (focus operation member) 601, an encoder 602, and an AF / MF changeover switch 700. The imaging device 100 has an imaging element 120, an A / D conversion unit 130, an image processing unit 140, a display unit (display means) 150, an operation unit 160, a storage unit 170, an AF detection unit (focus detection means) 180, and a camera control unit (control means) 190.

[0025] The lens control unit 209 and the camera control unit 190 are each configured with a computer such as a CPU, and are capable of communicating with each other.

[0026] In the imaging lens 200, the first lens driving unit 501 and the second lens driving unit 502 are actuators such as a stepping motor or a voice coil motor for independently driving the focus of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L. The first lens driving unit 501 and the second lens driving unit 502 are controlled by the lens control unit 209 that receives a focus command from the camera control unit 190 through communication. This allows independent AF of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L. In the AF, the entire optical system may be moved in the optical axis direction, or a focus lens in each optical system may be moved in the optical axis direction.

[0027] The MF ring 601 is provided for each of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L, and is rotated by the user. The encoder 602 detects the amount of rotation of the MF ring 601. The lens control unit 209 controls the first lens driving unit 501 and the second lens driving unit 502 according to the amount of rotation of the MF ring 601 detected by the encoder 602. This allows manual focusing (MF) of the right-eye optical system 201R and the left-eye optical system 201L to be performed. Specific control of this MF will be described later in Example 5. Depending on the user's operation of the AF / MF changeover switch 700, it is possible to switch between an AF mode in which AF is performed and an MF mode in which MF is performed in the imaging lens 200.

[0028] In the imaging device 100, the imaging element 120 is composed of a photoelectric conversion element such as a CMOS sensor, and converts the subject images formed by the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L into analog electric signals. The A / D converter 130 converts the analog electric signals output from the imaging element 120 into digital electric signals. The image processing unit 140 performs various image processes on the digital electric signals output from the A / D converter 130 to generate a pair of parallax images as image data.

[0029] The display unit 150 displays the pair of parallax images and various information related to imaging. As the display unit 150, an electronic viewfinder or a liquid crystal panel is used.

[0030] The operation unit 160 has a user interface function operated by a user who gives instructions to the imaging device 100. When the display unit 150 has a touch panel, the touch panel is also included in the operation unit 160. The operation unit 160 of this embodiment has an AF point input member (input means) 161 and an AF instruction member 162. The AF point input member 161 is operated by a user to select (input) an AF point that is a target position where the user wants to achieve focus by AF within an imaging range that is a field angle range of imaging through the right eye optical system 201R. The AF point input member 161 can be configured with a touch panel, a joystick, or the like. The AF instruction member 162 is operated by a user to instruct the start of AF at the selected AF point. The AF instruction member 162 is configured with a touch panel, a button, or the like.

[0031] The storage unit 170 stores various data such as image data output from the image processing unit 140. The storage unit 170 also stores a program for operating the camera control unit 190. The storage unit 170 is composed of a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, and the like.

[0032] The AF detection unit 180 detects the focus state for a subject (distance) located at the AF point using a signal output from the image sensor 120. In this embodiment, the image sensor 120 has pixels that perform so-called pupil division, and the AF detection unit 180 detects the phase difference between a pair of image signals output from the pixels, and outputs an AF evaluation value (defocus amount) indicating the focus state corresponding to the phase difference. The camera control unit 190 performs focus control (imaging surface phase difference AF) based on the AF evaluation value.

[0033] The AF detection unit 180 may generate and output an AF evaluation value (contrast evaluation value) corresponding to the focus state from the luminance component of the output signal from the image sensor 120. In this case, the camera control unit 190 performs focus control (contrast AF) so as to maximize the AF evaluation value.

[0034] The camera control unit 190 controls the entire camera system consisting of the imaging device 100 and the imaging lens 200. The camera control unit 190 is triggered by an instruction to start AF via the AF instruction member 162, and selects the lens driving units (501, 502) to be controlled and the driving amount based on the position information of the selected AF point and the focus state detected by the AF detection unit 180.

[0035] 4 shows an example of a pair of parallax images displayed on the display unit 150. A right-eye captured image (first captured image: hereinafter referred to as right-eye image) corresponding to a right-eye image circle ICR formed by the right-eye optical system 201R is displayed in a right region of the display unit 150. A left-eye captured image (second captured image: hereinafter referred to as left-eye image) corresponding to a left-eye image circle ICL formed by the left-eye optical system 201L is displayed in a left region of the display unit 150. Furthermore, AF points 151 arranged vertically and horizontally are displayed on the entire display unit 150.

[0036] Furthermore, on the captured image for the right eye (within the imaging range), a first AF frame 152 for displaying a first AF point (first target position) selected by the user via the AF point input member 161 is displayed so as to include the first AF point. This first AF point is an AF point for the right eye optical system 201R. In this embodiment, when the user instructs the start of AF via the AF instruction member 162 in this state, AF of the right eye optical system 201R is started.

[0037] On the other hand, on the captured image for the left eye (within the imaging range), a second AF frame 153 is indicated by a dashed line for displaying a second AF point (second target position) set by the camera control unit 190 as an AF point for the left eye optical system 201L corresponding to the first AF point in AF processing described later. The subject positioned at the second AF point is the same subject as the subject positioned at the first AF point. In AF processing described later, the second AF frame 153 is not displayed until AF of the right eye optical system 201R is completed, and after the AF is completed, the second AF frame 153 is displayed and AF of the left eye optical system 201L is performed.

[0038] The imaging device 100 of this embodiment can switch between a normal display mode, in which a captured image is displayed at the normal size shown in Fig. 4, and an enlarged display mode. In the enlarged display mode, an image area near an AF point selected in the normal display mode is enlarged and displayed on the display unit 150. Switching between the normal mode and the enlarged display mode can be performed by operating a display mode changeover switch (not shown) provided on the operation unit 160.

[0039] The flowchart in FIG. 5 shows the AF process that the camera control unit 190 executes according to a program.

[0040] In step S101, the camera control unit 190 acquires information on the position of the first AF point selected via the AF point input member 161. Then, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display a first AF frame 152 surrounding the first AF point on the right eye image.

[0041] Next, in step S102, the camera control unit 190 detects an AF start instruction from the AF instruction member 162.

[0042] Next, in step S103, the camera control unit 190 acquires an AF evaluation value at the first AF point from the AF detection unit 180, and determines the drive amount of the first lens drive unit 501 from the AF evaluation value.

[0043] Next, in step S104, the camera control unit 190 controls the first lens driving unit 501 according to the determined driving amount, thereby obtaining a focused state in the right eye optical system 201R and completing AF of the right eye optical system 201R.

[0044] Next, in step S105, the camera control unit 190 notifies the user that AF of the right eye optical system 201R is completed. Specifically, the camera control unit 190 notifies the user by blinking or changing the color of the first AF frame 152, or by sound or vibration.

[0045] Next, in step S106, the camera control unit 190 selects (sets) a second AF point for the left eye optical system 201L corresponding to the first AF point. Specifically, the amount of parallax of the left eye optical system 201L with respect to the right eye optical system 201R is calculated based on the position information of the first AF point, the focal lengths of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L, the base line length L1, the AF evaluation value acquired from the AF detection unit 180, and the like. Then, a position shifted by the amount of parallax from the first AF point is set as the second AF point. As a result, an AF point on the same subject as the subject located at the first AF point is selected as the second AF point.

[0046] Instead of the AF detection unit 180, a subject detection unit may be provided that performs image processing to identify a subject, such as a person's face, from a captured image. In this case, the subject detection unit recognizes a subject located at a first AF point in a right eye image, and detects the same subject in a left eye image. The camera control unit 190 sets the AF point on the detected subject as a second AF point.

[0047] Having selected the second AF point, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display a second AF frame 153 surrounding the second AF point on the left eye image.

[0048] Next, in step S107, the camera control unit 190 acquires an AF evaluation value at the second AF point from the AF detection unit 180, and determines the drive amount of the second lens drive unit 502 from the AF evaluation value.

[0049] Next, in step S108, the camera control unit 190 controls the second lens driving unit 501 according to the determined driving amount, thereby obtaining a focused state in the left eye optical system 201L as well, and completing AF of the left eye optical system 201L.

[0050] Next, in step S109, the camera control unit 190 notifies the user that AF of the left eye optical system 201L is completed. Specifically, the second AF frame 153 flashes or changes color, or further notifies the user by sound or vibration.

[0051] Next, in step S110, the camera control unit 190 changes the AF point for performing AF to the first AF point again, and displays the first AF frame 152 on the right eye image on the display unit 150. Then, this process ends.

[0052] According to the above process, when the first AF point for the right eye optical system 201R is input by the user, the second AF point for the left eye optical system 201L is automatically set, so that AF of the same subject can be easily performed by the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L. In addition, the user is notified upon completion of AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L, so that the user can obtain a pair of parallax images that provide a good stereoscopic effect by starting imaging upon receiving the notification. In addition, by performing AF for each optical system, power consumption per unit time can be reduced.

[0053] In this embodiment, a case has been described in which AF of the right eye optical system 201R is performed at a selected first AF point and then AF of the left eye optical system 201L is performed at a second AF point, but AF of the right eye optical system 201R at the first AF point may also be performed after AF of the left eye optical system 201L at a selected second AF point. [Example 2] Next, a second embodiment will be described. Fig. 6 shows the configuration of a stereoscopic camera system including an imaging lens 200' and the same imaging device 100 as in the first embodiment. In the imaging lens 200', a first lens driving unit 501' drives the right-eye and left-eye optical systems 201R and 201L as a whole or the focus lenses included therein as a whole. A second lens driving unit 502 drives the left-eye optical system 201L as a whole or the focus lens included therein. At this time, the driving amount of the first lens driving unit 501' is calculated from the AF evaluation value at the first AF point.

[0054] In this embodiment as well, the AF processing shown in FIG. 5 can be performed. [Example 3] Next, a third embodiment will be described. The flowchart in Fig. 7 shows an AF process executed by the camera control unit 190 according to a program in the third embodiment. The configuration of the camera system in this embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment. The AF process in this embodiment may be executed in the camera system in the second embodiment.

[0055] In step S201, the camera control unit 190 acquires information on the position of the first AF point selected via the AF point input member 161. Then, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display a first AF frame 152 surrounding the first AF point on the right eye image.

[0056] Next, in step S202, the camera control unit 190 detects an AF start instruction from the AF instruction member 162.

[0057] Next, in step S203, the camera control unit 190 selects (calculates) a second AF point for the left eye optical system 201L corresponding to the first AF point. The second AF point is selected in the same manner as described in step S106 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5). Having selected the second AF point, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display a second AF frame 153 surrounding the second AF point on the left eye image.

[0058] Next, in step S204, the camera control unit 190 acquires AF evaluation values ​​at the first AF point and the second AF point from the AF detection unit 180, and determines the respective drive amounts of the first lens driving unit 501 and the second lens driving unit 502 from these AF evaluation values.

[0059] Next, in step S205, the camera control unit 190 controls the first lens driving unit 501 and the second lens driving unit 502 according to the determined driving amount, thereby obtaining a focused state in each of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L, and completing the AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L.

[0060] Next, in step S206, the camera control unit 190 notifies the user that the AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L is completed. Specifically, the first AF frame 152 and the second AF frame 153 flash or change the color, or further notify the user by sound or vibration.

[0061] Next, in step S207, the camera control unit 190 removes the display of the second AF frame 153 from the display unit 150. As a result, only the first AF point 152 is displayed.

[0062] In this embodiment, when the first AF point for the right eye optical system 201R is input by the user, the second AF point for the left eye optical system 201L is automatically set, so that AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L on the same subject can be easily performed. In addition, the user is notified upon completion of AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L, so that the user can obtain a pair of parallax images that provide a good stereoscopic effect by starting imaging upon receiving the notification. In addition, in this embodiment, AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L is performed simultaneously, so that the time required to complete AF of the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L can be shortened compared to the first embodiment. [Example 4] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. The flowchart in Fig. 8 shows the AF process in the fourth embodiment. In this embodiment, the AF process when the enlarged display mode is selected by the user will be described.

[0063] In step S301, the camera control unit 190 acquires information about the position of the first AF point selected via the AF point input member 161. Then, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display an enlarged image of a portion of the right eye image near the first AF point, and causes a first AF frame 152 surrounding the first AF point to be displayed on the enlarged image. The user can also fine-tune the first AF point by looking at the first AF frame 152 displayed on the enlarged image.

[0064] The processing in steps S302 to S305 is the same as the processing in steps S102 to S105 in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

[0065] Next, in step S306, the camera control unit 190 selects (calculates) a second AF point for the left eye optical system 201L corresponding to the first AF point. The second AF point is selected by the same method as that described in step S106 of the first embodiment (FIG. 5). Having selected the second AF point, the camera control unit 190 causes the display unit 150 to display an enlarged image of a portion of the left eye image near the second AF point, and causes the display unit 150 to display a second AF frame 153 surrounding the second AF point on the enlarged image.

[0066] The processing in steps S307 to S310 is the same as the processing in steps S107 to S110 in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

[0067] In this embodiment, the first AF point and the second AF point are displayed on enlarged images of the right eye image and the left eye image, respectively, making it easier for the user to confirm which part of the subject the first AF point and the second AF point are located (for example, the right eye rather than the nose on a person's face).

[0068] In this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, AF of the right eye optical system 201R at the first AF point may be performed after AF of the left eye optical system 201L at the selected second AF point. [Example 5] Next, a description will be given of embodiment 5. The flowchart in Fig. 9 shows MF processing in embodiment 5. In this embodiment, the processing when the MF mode is selected by the user will be described.

[0069] In step S401, when the first AF point is selected via the AF point input member 161, the camera control unit 190 starts MF processing of the right eye optical system 201R.

[0070] In the MF processing, in step S402, when the rotation of the MF ring 601 is detected by the encoder 602 via the lens control unit 209, the camera control unit 190 converts the amount of rotation of the MF ring 601 detected by the encoder 602 into the amount of drive of the first lens driving unit 501.

[0071] Then, in step S403, the camera control unit 190 controls the first lens driving unit 501 in accordance with the converted driving amount, thereby performing MF control of the right eye optical system 201R.

[0072] Although not shown in FIG. 9, when the second AF point is subsequently selected by the user via the AF point input member 161, the camera control unit 190 causes MF processing of the left eye optical system 201L to be performed.

[0073] In this way, in the MF mode, MF of the right eye optical system 201R is performed in response to the operation of the MF ring 601 in response to input of the first AF point via the AF point input member 161, and MF of the left eye optical system 201L is performed in response to the operation of the same MF ring 601 in response to input of the second AF point via the AF point input member 161. This allows MF of both the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L to be performed by operating the single MF ring 601. In addition, the following process may be performed following step S403. In step S404, when the camera control unit 190 detects the completion of MF of the right-eye optical system 201R by the user's operation on the operation unit 160, the camera control unit 190 calculates the distance at which the right-eye optical system 201R is focused based on the focal length and focus drive position of the right-eye optical system 201R (or detects the focused object). Then, the camera control unit 190 calculates the drive amount of the second lens drive unit 502 for the left-eye optical system 201L to focus on the distance (or object), and controls the second lens drive unit 502 according to the drive amount. As a result, the focused state of the left-eye optical system 201L is obtained, and AF of the left-eye optical system 201L according to the MF of the right-eye optical system 201R is completed.

[0074] Next, in step S405, the camera control unit 190 notifies the user that the AF of the left eye optical system 201L has been completed by sound, vibration, etc. Then, this process ends.

[0075] According to this embodiment, since AF of the left eye optical system 201L is performed according to MF of the right eye optical system 201R, the right eye optical system 201R and the left eye optical system 201L can be easily brought into focus on a subject that the user wishes to focus on by MF. Furthermore, the user can be clearly notified of the completion of AF of the left eye optical system 201L after MF of the right eye optical system 201R.

[0076] Note that AF of the right eye optical system 201R may be performed after MF of the left eye optical system 201L.

[0077] The AF processing described in Examples 1 to 4 and the MF processing described in Example 5 can be performed even when the imaging device has an image sensor for capturing an object image formed by the first optical system and an image sensor for capturing an object image formed by the second optical system separately. Furthermore, the AF processing and MF processing in each example can be performed not only when the first optical system and the second optical system are optical systems that bend the optical axis, but also when the first optical system and the second optical system are coaxial optical systems whose optical axes extend linearly from the object side to the image side.

[0078] The above embodiment includes the following configurations.

[0079] (Configuration 1) an image sensor that captures two subject images formed by a first optical system and a second optical system that are arranged in parallel; a focus detection means for detecting a focus state using a signal output from the image sensor; a control unit that performs focus control of each of the first and second optical systems based on the focus state; and an input unit for allowing a user to input a first target position within an imaging range through the first optical system, The control means performing focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, setting a second target position corresponding to the first target position within an imaging range through the second optical system, and performing focus control of the second optical system according to the focus state at the second target position; The imaging apparatus further comprises a step of notifying a user when the focus control is completed. (Configuration 2) 2. The imaging apparatus according to configuration 1, wherein the control means sets the second target position for the same subject as the subject for which the first target position is set. (Configuration 3) The control means focus control of the first optical system; the notification upon completion of focus control of the first optical system; focus control of the second optical system; 3. The imaging device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the notification when focus control of the second optical system is completed is performed in this order. (Configuration 4) The control means focus control of the first and second optical systems; 3. The imaging device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the notification when focus control of the first and second optical systems is completed is performed in this order. (Configuration 5) a display means for displaying a first captured image obtained by imaging through the first optical system and a second captured image obtained by imaging through the second optical system, The control means displaying the first target position on the first captured image to perform focus control of the first optical system; The imaging device according to configuration 3, characterized in that after focus control of the first optical system is completed, the second target position is displayed on the second captured image and focus control of the second optical system is performed. (Configuration 6) The control means controls the display means to displaying an enlarged image of a portion of the first captured image including the first target position; The imaging device according to configuration 5, wherein an image obtained by enlarging a portion of the second captured image that includes the second target position is displayed. (Configuration 7) a display means for displaying a first captured image obtained by imaging through the first optical system and a second captured image obtained by imaging through the second optical system, The control means The imaging device described in configuration 4, characterized in that the first target position is displayed on the first captured image and the second target position is displayed on the second captured image, thereby performing focus control of the first and second optical systems. (Configuration 8) The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the control means controls a first driving means for driving the first optical system and a second driving means for driving the second optical system in focus control. (Configuration 9) The imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the control means controls a first driving means that drives the first and second optical systems, and a second driving means that drives the second optical system, in focus control. (Configuration 10) a focus control of the first and second optical systems and a manual focus of the first and second optical systems can be switched between each other; In the manual focus, The control means controlling the first optical system in response to an operation of a focus operation member in response to an input of the first target position through the input means; An imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the second optical system is controlled in response to operation of the focus operation member in response to input of the second target position through the input means. (Configuration 11) It is possible to switch between focus control of the first optical system and manual focus of the first optical system, The imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the control means sets the second target position and controls the focus of the second optical system after manual focusing of the first optical system is performed in accordance with input of the first target position and operation of a focus operation member.

[0080] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a 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 implements one or more of the functions.

[0081] The embodiments described above are merely representative examples, and various modifications and alterations are possible for each embodiment when implementing the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 100 Imaging device 120 Image sensor 150 Display section 151 AF points 152 1st AF slot 153 2nd AF frame 161 AF point input component 200 Imaging Lens 201R Right eye optical system 201L Left eye optical system 501 First lens drive unit 502 Second lens drive unit

Claims

1. an image sensor for capturing two subject images formed by a first optical system and a second optical system arranged in parallel; a focus detection means for detecting a focus state using a signal output from the image sensor; a control unit for performing focus control of each of the first and second optical systems based on the focus state; an input unit for allowing a user to input a first target position within an imaging range through the first optical system, The control means performing focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, setting a second target position corresponding to the first target position within an imaging range through the second optical system, and performing focus control of the second optical system according to the focus state at the second target position; The imaging apparatus further comprises a step of notifying a user when the focus control is completed.

2. 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means sets the second target position for the same subject as the subject for which the first target position is set.

3. The control means focus control of the first optical system; the notification when focus control of the first optical system is completed; focus control of the second optical system; 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification when focus control of the second optical system is completed is performed in this order.

4. The control means focus control of the first and second optical systems; 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification of completion of focus control of the first optical system and the notification of completion of focus control of the second optical system are performed in this order.

5. a display unit that displays a first captured image obtained by imaging through the first optical system and a second captured image obtained by imaging through the second optical system, The control means displaying the first target position on the first captured image to perform focus control of the first optical system; 4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein after focus control of the first optical system is completed, the second target position is displayed on the second captured image and focus control of the second optical system is performed.

6. The control means controls the display means to displaying an enlarged image of a portion of the first captured image including the first target position; 6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein an image obtained by enlarging a portion of the second captured image that includes the second target position is displayed.

7. a display unit that displays a first captured image obtained by imaging through the first optical system and a second captured image obtained by imaging through the second optical system, The control means 5. The imaging device according to claim 4, wherein focus control of the first and second optical systems is performed by displaying the first target position on the first captured image and the second target position on the second captured image.

8. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls, in focus control, a first driving means for driving the first optical system and a second driving means for driving the second optical system.

9. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls, in focus control, a first driving means for driving the first and second optical systems, and a second driving means for driving the second optical system.

10. a focus control of the first and second optical systems and a manual focus of the first and second optical systems can be switched between each other; In the manual focus, The control means controlling the first optical system in response to an operation of a focus operation member in response to an input of the first target position through the input means; 2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second optical system is controlled in response to an input of the second target position through the input device in accordance with an operation of the focus operation member.

11. A focus control of the first optical system and a manual focus of the first optical system can be switched between each other, 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the control means sets the second target position and controls the focus of the second optical system after manual focusing of the first optical system is performed in accordance with input of the first target position and operation of a focus operating member.

12. 1. A method for controlling an image pickup apparatus having an image pickup element for capturing two subject images formed by a first optical system and a second optical system arranged in parallel, the method detecting a focus state using a signal output from the image pickup element, the method comprising the steps of: A step of having a user input a first target position within an imaging range through the first optical system; a step of performing focus control of the first optical system according to the focus state at the first target position, setting a second target position corresponding to the first target position within an imaging range through the second optical system, and performing focus control of the second optical system according to the focus state at the second target position; and notifying a user when the focus control is completed.

13. A program for causing a computer of the imaging device to execute a process according to the control method of claim 12.

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