Accessory and imaging system including the same

Abstract

To provide an accessory that allows a user to easily identify operating members, and a camera system including the same.SOLUTION: An accessory comprises: a first lens unit that moves in an optical axis direction in focusing or zooming; a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the optical axis direction; and a second operating member for changing a first parameter that is selected from a plurality of parameters different from a parameter changeable in focusing and zooming. A material of a surface of the first operating member is a material that is more easily elastically deformed than a material of a surface of the second operating member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an accessory and an imaging system including the accessory. [Background technology]

[0002] The lens device described in Patent Document 1 is known as a lens device equipped with a third operation ring whose function can be changed in addition to a zoom ring and a focus ring. The lens device in Patent Document 1 is provided with a zoom operation ring, a focus operation ring, and a custom operation ring, in that order from the camera body side. Any of the following functions can be assigned to this custom operation ring: aperture value change function, shutter speed change function, exposure compensation function, and continuous shooting speed adjustment function. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2003-177294 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Patent Document 1 does not specify the surface structure of the custom operation ring and the other operation rings. If the surface structures of the operation rings are the same, it will be difficult for the user to distinguish between these operation rings.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE An object of the present invention is to provide an accessory that allows easy identification of operating members, and an imaging system including the accessory. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] As one aspect for achieving the above-mentioned object, an accessory comprises a first lens unit that moves in the optical axis direction during focusing or zooming, a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the optical axis direction, and a second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a plurality of parameters different from the parameters that can be changed during focusing and zooming, and is characterized in that the material of the surface of the first operating member is more easily elastically deformed than the material of the surface of the second operating member. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an accessory in which an operating member is easily identifiable, and an imaging system including the accessory. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] Block diagram of camera system (imaging system) 300 [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is an external view of a first interchangeable lens 100A as viewed in a first direction; [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is an external view of the first interchangeable lens 100A as viewed in a second direction; [Diagram 3] Schematic diagram of the appearance of a first interchangeable lens 100A [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a schematic first cross-sectional view showing the shapes of a first exterior member 107 and a second exterior member 108. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 is a schematic second cross-sectional view showing the shapes of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is an external view of a second interchangeable lens 100B as viewed in a first direction; [Figure 5B] FIG. 13 is an external view of the second interchangeable lens 100B as viewed in a second direction. [Figure 6A] FIG. 13 is an external view of a third interchangeable lens 100C as viewed in a first direction. [Figure 6B] FIG. 13 is an external view of the third interchangeable lens 100C as viewed in a second direction. [Figure 7A]FIG. 11 is an external view of a fourth interchangeable lens 100D viewed in a first direction. [Figure 7B] FIG. 13 is an external view of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D as viewed in a second direction. [Figure 8] Schematic diagram of a camera system 300A including an adapter 400. [Figure 9] External view of the adapter 400 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] (Block configuration of camera system) First, a block configuration of an interchangeable lens 100 and a camera body (camera main unit) 200 in an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram of a camera system 300 equipped with an interchangeable lens (optical device, accessory, lens apparatus) 100 and a camera body 200.

[0011] (Block structure of camera body) The camera body 200 includes imaging means 202, which is a photoelectric conversion element or image sensor including a CCD or CMOS that converts the optical information of the subject obtained via the interchangeable lens 100 into an electrical signal (performs photoelectric conversion of the subject image). The camera body 200 further includes a camera mount (first mount portion) 201 that is coupled to the lens mount (second mount portion) 101 on the interchangeable lens 100 side, and a camera housing 205 that holds the imaging means 202 and the like.

[0012] In addition to the imaging means 202 and camera mount 201, the camera body 200 also includes a camera communication means for communicating with the lens communication means on the interchangeable lens 100 side, a photometry means for measuring photometry, a distance measurement means for measuring distance, and a recording device for recording data of captured photos and videos. The camera body 200 also includes a setting means for setting shooting conditions such as shutter speed, a release means (shutter button) that can be operated by the user, a display means for displaying various information to the user, and a power source. The camera body 200 also includes a camera CPU, which is a control means for controlling the imaging means 202 and the like.

[0013] (Interchangeable lens block configuration) The interchangeable lens 100 is attachable to and detachable from the camera body 200. The interchangeable lens 100 includes a lens barrel 102 and a lens mount (camera accessory mount) 101. Electrical communication between the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 is performed by a lens communication means and a camera communication means, each of which includes a plurality of electrical contacts that can be electrically connected to the other. Various types of information, such as power supply information and control information, can be exchanged (sent and received) between the camera CPU and the lens CPU.

[0014] In addition to the lens mount 101, the interchangeable lens 100 includes a zooming lens unit ZLU that moves during zooming, a focusing lens unit FLU that moves during focusing, and a shift lens unit SLU that moves for image stabilization. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes a lens unit LU other than the zooming lens unit ZLU, the focusing lens unit FLU, and the shift lens unit SLU, an aperture unit DU, and an ND filter NDF. Each lens unit here may have one or more lenses.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 100 further includes a zoom driving means for driving the zooming lens unit ZLU, a focus driving means for driving the focusing lens unit FLU, and an aperture driving means for driving the aperture unit DU. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes an ND driving means for driving the ND filter NDF, and an anti-vibration driving means for driving the shift lens unit SLU. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes a lens communication means, and a lens CPU as a control means for controlling the lens communication means and the above-mentioned driving means.

[0016] 1, the interchangeable lens 100 is a zoom lens equipped with a zooming lens unit ZLU, but the interchangeable lens 100 may be a prime lens that does not have a zooming lens unit ZLU. Furthermore, the interchangeable lens 100 may not have a shift lens unit SLU. The interchangeable lens 100 may be directly attached to the camera body 200 without an adapter.

[0017] (First Example) Next, the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and is also an accessory of the first embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to Figures 2, 3, and 4. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A, and Figure 2A is an appearance diagram of the first interchangeable lens 100A when viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Figure 2B is an appearance diagram of the first interchangeable lens 100A when viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0018] In FIG. 2, reference numeral 103 denotes a focus operation ring (first operation member) for moving the focusing lens unit FLU in a direction parallel to the optical axis O (optical axis direction).

[0019] A custom operation ring (second operation member) 104 can realize either a first function or a second function different from focusing. In other words, either a first function or a second function different from focusing can be assigned to the custom operation ring 104.

[0020] The display means, which is the touch display of the camera body 200 shown in FIG. 1 described above, is capable of displaying buttons corresponding to multiple functions that can be assigned to the custom operation ring 104. Of the buttons corresponding to the multiple functions displayed on the display means, the function corresponding to the button that the user touches is assigned to the custom operation ring 104. In other words, the touch display of the camera body 200 is both a display means (display section) and a selection means (selection section). Selection of the function to be assigned to the custom operation ring 104 is not limited to the above-mentioned means. The interchangeable lens 100 may be provided with a switch or touch display that is a selection means for selecting the function to be assigned to the custom operation ring 104. Alternatively, the camera body 200 may be provided with a selection means separate from the touch display.

[0021] The first and second functions that can be assigned to the custom operation ring 104 are as follows: a function to adjust (change) parameters related to shooting conditions such as aperture value, white balance, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and exposure value, and a function to switch between manual focus and autofocus. In addition to the first and second functions, a third and fourth functions may also be assigned to the custom operation ring 104.

[0022] (Configuration to realize an accessory with two operating parts that are easy to distinguish) As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the surface of the focus operation ring 103 is provided with a flat groove structure (first structure, vertical rib structure), and the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a crisscross groove structure (second structure, mesh groove structure). In other words, the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a structure different from that of the focus operation ring 103. This makes it possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operation members. The flat groove structure here refers to a structure having multiple grooves 1031 parallel to the optical axis direction as shown in FIG. 3. Alternatively, the flat groove structure refers to a structure that has been subjected to flat knurling. Also, the crisscross groove structure refers to a structure having multiple grooves 1041 that intersect (are tilted) with respect to the optical axis direction as shown in FIG. 3. Alternatively, the crisscross groove structure refers to a structure that has been subjected to crisscross knurling.

[0023] (Other configurations) In the structure provided on the surface of the custom operation ring 104, a portion 1042 surrounded by a total of four grooves 1041 has a quadrangular pyramid shape with a diamond-shaped bottom. This makes the tactile feel of the surface of the focus operation ring 103 and the tactile feel of the surface of the custom operation ring 104 different from each other, making it easier to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0024] The surface material of the focus operation ring 103 is different from the surface material of the custom operation ring 104. In addition to the above-mentioned difference in surface structure, there is also a difference in tactile sensation between the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104, making it easier for the user to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0025] More specifically, since the focus operation ring 103 includes a rubber ring, the surface material of the focus operation ring 103 is rubber. And, since the custom operation ring 104 includes a ring-shaped member made of injection-molded plastic, the surface material of the custom operation ring 104 is less susceptible to elastic deformation than the surface material of the focus operation ring 103. In other words, the surface material of the focus operation ring 103 is more susceptible to elastic deformation than the surface material of the custom operation ring 104. This is because making the surface material of the focus operation ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom operation ring 104, softer reduces the operating burden on the user while making it easier to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0026] 2 and 3, the width of the focus operation ring 103 in the optical axis direction is larger than the width of the custom operation ring 104 in the optical axis direction. There is also a difference in size between the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104, which makes it easier for the user to distinguish between the two operation members. In addition, by making the focus operation ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom operation ring 104, larger, it is possible to ensure operability while making it easier to distinguish between the two operation members.

[0027] Furthermore, the custom operation ring 104 is disposed closer to the object (subject) than the focus operation ring 103. In other words, the focus operation ring 103 is disposed closer to the image (image sensor) than the custom operation ring 104. The reason for this positional relationship is that by disposing the focus operation ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom operation ring 104, closer to the user's hand, the focus operation ring 103 becomes easier to operate.

[0028] Reference numeral 105 denotes an intermediate tube provided between the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104. The rotation of the intermediate tube 105 is restricted, and the intermediate tube 105 cannot rotate around the optical axis O (around the optical axis direction). Let us consider a case where the intermediate tube 105 is not provided, and the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 are disposed close to each other. In this case, the user's finger is likely to come into contact with both the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104, increasing the possibility that both operation rings will be operated simultaneously. In response to this, by providing the intermediate tube 105 as in the first interchangeable lens 100A, it is possible to reduce the possibility that both operation rings will be operated simultaneously.

[0029] The intermediate tube 105 may be rotatable around the optical axis O, but it is preferable that the rotation is restricted as in the first interchangeable lens 100A. This is because if there is a member other than the operation ring that is rotatable around the optical axis O, the user may mistakenly recognize that member as the operation ring.

[0030] It is preferable that the surface structure of the intermediate tube 105 is different from the surface structure of the focus operation ring 103 and the surface structure of the custom operation ring 104. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, no groove structure is provided on the surface of the intermediate tube 105. As a result, the intermediate tube 105 serves as a kind of boundary line, and it becomes clearer that the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 are separate operation rings.

[0031] 2 and 3, the width of the intermediate tube 105 in the optical axis direction is smaller than the width of the focus operation ring 103 in the optical axis direction and the width of the custom operation ring 104 in the optical axis direction. This makes it possible to ensure the widths of the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 in the optical axis direction while suppressing an increase in the overall length of the first interchangeable lens 100A in the optical axis direction.

[0032] Reference numeral 1061 denotes a first circular ring member provided closer to the object side than the custom operation ring 104, and reference numeral 1062 denotes a second circular ring member provided closer to the object side than the first circular ring member. The first circular ring member 1061 and the second circular ring member 1062 may be collectively referred to as circular ring members. Rotation of both the first circular ring member 1061 and the second circular ring member 1062 around the optical axis O is restricted.

[0033] The surface color of the first circular member 1061 is different from the surface color of the second circular member 1062 and the surface color of the custom operation ring 104. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, the surface color of the first circular member 1061 is red. The first circular member 1061 indicates that an interchangeable lens having the first circular member 1061 is a specific interchangeable lens, that is, it functions as an indicator member indicating the type of accessory. In other words, the first circular member 1061 is provided with a type indicator that indicates the type of accessory.

[0034] The second annular member 1062 is provided with a cap attachment index (first attachment index) 1091 for attaching a cap or the like for protecting the front surface of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0035] Of the first circular member 1061 and the second circular member 1062, at least the second circular member 1062 is preferably made of a material other than metal, that is, plastic (resin). Of course, it is preferable that both are made of a material other than metal. This is because it is possible to reduce the amount of static electricity that penetrates into the first interchangeable lens 100A from its tip.

[0036] Reference numeral 107 denotes a first exterior member (first exterior portion), and 108 denotes a second exterior member (second exterior portion) at least a portion of which is exposed from the first exterior member 107. The second exterior member 108 is provided with a lens attachment index (second index) 1092 for attaching the first interchangeable lens 100A to the camera body 200. By aligning the phase of the lens attachment index 1092 with that of the index on the camera body 200 side, it becomes easier to insert the multiple bayonet claws of the lens mount 101 into the cutouts between the multiple bayonet claws of the camera mount 201.

[0037] Even when the first interchangeable lens 100A is attached to the camera body 200, a part of the second exterior member 108 is exposed from the first exterior member 107. Furthermore, the surface color of the second exterior member 108 is different from the surface color of the first exterior member 107, and in the first interchangeable lens 100A, the surface of the second exterior member 108 is silver (the color of a metal surface) and the surface color of the first exterior member 107 is black.

[0038] 2A and 2B, the image side end of the first exterior member 107 has a first wall portion 1071 and a second wall portion 1072 that is recessed further than the first wall portion 1071. In other words, the end face of the first wall portion 1071 protrudes further toward the image side than the end face of the second wall portion 1072. Alternatively, it may be considered that a part of the image side end of the first exterior member 107 is cut out. In this case, the wall portion having the same phase and circumferential width as the cut out portion is the second wall portion 1072, and the remaining uncut portion is the first wall portion 1071.

[0039] Since the first exterior member 107 has a first wall portion 1071 and a second wall portion 1072, the shape of the portion of the second exterior member 108 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107 varies depending on the direction from which the first interchangeable lens 100A is viewed.

[0040] That is, the shape of the surface of the second exterior member 108 exposed from the first exterior member 107 when viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction shown in FIG. 2A is defined as the first exposed shape. Then, the shape of the surface of the second exterior member 108 exposed from the first exterior member 107 when viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction shown in FIG. 2B and different from the first direction is defined as the second exposed shape. In this case, it can be said that the first exposed shape and the second exposed shape of the first exterior member 107 are mutually different shapes. This makes it easier to determine the circumferential orientation of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0041] For example, if the first interchangeable lens 100A attached to the camera body 200 is in a normal state when viewed from the side, it becomes easier to determine whether the first interchangeable lens 100A is in a normal state based on the difference in the exposed shape of the second exterior member 108. More specifically, when the first interchangeable lens 100A attached to the camera body 200 is viewed from the side, the first interchangeable lens 100A appears as shown in FIG. 2B. In other words, when the first interchangeable lens 100A appears as shown in FIG. 2B when viewed from the side, it is understood that the first interchangeable lens 100A is in a normal state. Note that the normal state here refers to a state in which the shutter button of the camera body 200 faces upwards, and a state in which the interchangeable lens 100 attached to the camera body 200 is in such a state.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 2B, when viewed in the second direction, a predetermined straight line L1 parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the lens attachment index 1092 and a part of the second wall portion 1072. In other words, the straight line L1 passes through a part of the lens attachment index 1092 and a part of the recess between the first wall portion 1071. In further other words, when viewed in the second direction, the lens attachment index 1092 is provided in a part 1081 that is wider in the optical axis direction than the other parts of the part of the surface of the second exterior member 108 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107. This makes it possible to make the lens attachment index 1092 a large and noticeable index. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, the lens attachment index 1092 has a shape in which its width in the optical axis direction is larger.

[0043] A part of the first exterior member 107 serves as a switch base 112 for holding switches 110 and 111. Reference numeral 110 denotes a focus mode setting switch (focus mode switching section, first switching section) for switching between autofocus mode and manual focus mode. Reference numeral 111 denotes a shooting distance range setting switch for switching the shooting distance range.

[0044] The focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 are provided on the image side of the focus operation ring 103. In other words, the focus operation ring 103 is provided between the custom operation ring 104 and the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 2B, in the second direction, a straight line L2 that is parallel to the optical axis O and passes through a part of the focus mode setting switch 110 passes through a part of the second wall portion 1072. A straight line L3 that is parallel to the optical axis O and passes through a part of the shooting distance range setting switch 111 passes through a part of the second wall portion 1072. In other words, the phase of the second wall portion 1072 and the phase of the focus mode setting switches 110 and 111 are approximately the same. Consider a case where it is difficult to visually confirm the positions of the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111, such as when taking pictures at night. In this case, for example, the thumb of the left hand can be brought into contact with the recess between the first wall portions 1071 and the left hand can be moved forward to easily operate the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 with the left hand. Furthermore, when viewed in the second direction, the interchangeable lens 100 is configured so that a predetermined straight line parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the switch base portion 112 and a part of the second wall portion 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall portion 1071).

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the interchangeable lens 100 is provided with a click mechanism (click sensation generating mechanism). This click mechanism can generate a click sensation when the custom operation ring 104 is operated. In other words, in the first interchangeable lens 100A, no click sensation is generated when the focus operation ring 103 is operated, but a click sensation is generated by the click mechanism when the custom operation ring 104 is operated. This makes it possible to distinguish between the two operation rings based on the difference in operation sensation. The click mechanism is composed of, for example, a plurality of grooves provided on the inner periphery of the custom operation ring 104, an elastic member, and a pin member biased against the grooves by the elastic member.

[0047] The first wall portion 1071 and the second wall portion 1072 will be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a cross section of the image side end portion of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108. Fig. 4A is a schematic partial cross section of the first interchangeable lens 100A taken along a cross section (first cross section) parallel to the paper surface in Fig. 2A and passing through the optical axis O. Fig. 4B is a schematic partial cross section of the first interchangeable lens 100A taken along a cross section (second cross section) parallel to the paper surface in Fig. 2B and passing through the optical axis O.

[0048] As shown in Fig. 4A, the second wall portion 1072 covers a portion (near the end portion on the object side) of the second exterior member 108. As shown in Fig. 4B, the first wall portion 1071 also covers a portion (near the end portion on the object side) of the second exterior member 108. And, as shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, the area of ​​the surface of the second exterior member 108 covered by the first wall portion 1071 is larger than the area of ​​the surface of the second exterior member 108 covered by the second wall portion 1072.

[0049] (Second Example) Next, the appearance of the second interchangeable lens 100B, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and is also an accessory of the second embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the appearance of the second interchangeable lens 100B, and Fig. 5A is an appearance diagram of the second interchangeable lens 100B when viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Fig. 5B is an appearance diagram of the second interchangeable lens 100B when viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same functions as the first interchangeable lens 100A described above are given the same reference numerals as in Fig. 2, and their description will be omitted.

[0050] In the second interchangeable lens 100B as well, a flat groove structure (first structure) is provided on the surface of the focus operation ring 103, and a crisscross groove structure (second structure) is provided on the surface of the custom operation ring 104. Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory in which the two operation members are easily distinguished.

[0051] 1 is a zoom operation ring (third operation member) for moving the zoom lens unit ZLU in the optical axis direction. The zoom operation ring 120 is provided closer to the image side than the focus operation ring 103. That is, from the object side, the customization operation ring 104, the focus operation ring 103, and the zoom operation ring 120 are arranged in this order.

[0052] 5, the surface of the zoom operation ring 120 is provided with a grooved structure in the same manner as the surface of the focus operation ring 103. However, the outer diameter shapes of the focus operation ring 103 and the zoom operation ring 120 are different. More specifically, the zoom operation ring 120 has a large diameter portion 121, a small diameter portion 123 having a smaller diameter than the large diameter portion 121, and a connecting portion 122 between the large diameter portion 121 and the small diameter portion 123. The surfaces of the large diameter portion 121, the connecting portion 122, and the small diameter portion 123 are provided with grooved structures in the shape of a flat eye. Therefore, in the second interchangeable lens 100B, it is easy to distinguish the three operation rings in total, the custom operation ring 104, the focus operation ring 103, and the zoom operation ring 120.

[0053] In the second interchangeable lens 100B, when the zoom operation ring 120 is operated, the lens holding frame 130 moves in the optical axis direction. 113 is a lock switch (second switching unit) for locking the operation of the zoom operation ring 120 to prevent the lens holding frame 130 from moving in the optical axis direction under its own weight when not in use. As shown in FIG. 5A, a straight line L4 that passes through a part of the lock switch 113 and is parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the second wall portion 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall portion 1071). Therefore, like the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 described above, the lock switch 113 is also easy to find.

[0054] Reference numeral 114 denotes an IS switch for switching the image stabilization function on and off. As shown in FIG. 5B, a straight line L5 that passes through a part of the IS switch 114 and is parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the second wall portion 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall portion 1071). Therefore, like the above-mentioned switches 110 and 111, the IS switch 114 is also easy to find.

[0055] It should be noted that in the second interchangeable lens 100B, the cap attachment index 1091 is provided on the lens holding frame 130 rather than on the second annular member 1062.

[0056] In the second interchangeable lens 100B, the focus mode setting switch 110, the lock switch 113, and the IS changeover switch 114 are provided on the image side of the zoom operation ring 120. The surface material of the zoom operation ring 120 is rubber, the same as the surface material of the focus operation ring 103.

[0057] (Third Example) Next, the appearance of the third interchangeable lens 100C, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and is also an accessory of the third embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing the appearance of the third interchangeable lens 100C, and Fig. 6A is an appearance diagram of the third interchangeable lens 100C viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Fig. 6B is an appearance diagram of the second interchangeable lens 100C viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same functions as the first interchangeable lens 100A or second interchangeable lens 100B described above are given the same reference numerals as Fig. 2 or Fig. 5, and their description will be omitted.

[0058] In the third interchangeable lens 100C as well, a flat groove structure (first structure) is provided on the surface of the focus operation ring 103, and a crisscross groove structure (second structure) is provided on the surface of the custom operation ring 104. Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operation members.

[0059] Like the above-mentioned second interchangeable lens 100B, the third interchangeable lens 100C is equipped with a zoom operation ring 120. However, the position of the zoom operation ring 120 in the optical axis direction in the third interchangeable lens 100C is different from that in the second interchangeable lens 100B. Specifically, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the zoom operation ring 120 is provided on the image side relative to the focus mode setting switch 110. In other words, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the focus mode setting switch 110 is provided between the focus operation ring 103 and the zoom operation ring 120.

[0060] By adopting the above configuration, even if the focus operation ring 103 and the zoom operation ring 120 have similar shapes as in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the focus mode setting switch 110 serves as a boundary to make it easier to distinguish between the two. As described above, the surface of the custom operation ring 104 has a groove structure with a checkered pattern that is different from the other operation rings. That is, even in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the total of three operation rings, the custom operation ring 104, the focus operation ring 103, and the zoom operation ring 120, are easy to distinguish. In addition, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the diameter of the custom operation ring 104 is larger than the diameter of the zoom operation ring 120. Therefore, the custom operation ring 104 and the zoom operation ring 120 are easy to distinguish between.

[0061] (Fourth Example) Next, the appearance of a fourth interchangeable lens 100D, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and is also an accessory of a fourth embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the appearance of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D, and Fig. 7A is an appearance diagram of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D when viewed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Fig. 7B is an appearance diagram of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D when viewed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same functions as the above-mentioned interchangeable lenses are given the same reference numerals as Fig. 2 or Fig. 5, and their description will be omitted.

[0062] The fourth interchangeable lens 100D differs from the first, second and third interchangeable lenses described above in that it has a third circular member 1063 instead of the first circular member 1061. In addition, it is not provided with a cap attachment index 1091. The surface of the first circular member 1061 described above was red, but the third circular member 1063 is a color different from red, for example, black or gray.

[0063] In the fourth interchangeable lens 100D as well, a flat groove structure (first structure) is provided on the surface of the focus operation ring 103, and a crisscross groove structure (second structure) is provided on the surface of the custom operation ring 104. Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operation members.

[0064] (Fifth Example) Next, an adapter (accessory) 400 which is an accessory according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a camera system 300A including an adapter 400, and Figure 9 is an external view of the adapter 400.

[0065] Each of the above-mentioned interchangeable lenses 100A to 100D can be directly attached to the camera body 200 without an adapter. The adapter 400 in this embodiment can also be directly attached to the camera body 200. The adapter 400 is an adapter that enables an interchangeable lens 500 that cannot be directly attached to the camera body 200 to be used in combination with the camera body 200, as shown in Fig. 8.

[0066] 9, the adapter 400 includes the above-mentioned custom operation ring 104, lens attachment index 1092, and lens mount 101. It also includes a lock pin 401 for insertion into a recess provided in the lens mount portion of the interchangeable lens 500, and a pin operation portion 402 for moving the lock pin 401 forward and backward in the optical axis direction.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 8, the interchangeable lens 500 is equipped with a focus operation ring 103 having a flat groove structure. And, as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, the adapter 400 is equipped with a custom operation ring 104 having a crisscross groove structure. Therefore, when taking pictures using the interchangeable lens 500, the adapter 400, and the camera body 200, it is easy to distinguish between the focus operation ring 103 provided on the interchangeable lens 500 and the custom operation ring 104 provided on the adapter 400.

[0068] (Modification) Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0069] Each of the interchangeable lenses in the first, second and third embodiments described above has a second circular member 1062 and a first circular member 1061 that is an indicator member that indicates the type of interchangeable lens. However, instead of the first circular member 101, for example, a portion of the second circular member 1062 that is painted over its entire circumference may be used as an indicator that indicates the type of interchangeable lens.

[0070] Moreover, the interchangeable lenses (accessories) in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above are different members, and include the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108, which have different surface colors. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, instead of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108, a single exterior member in which these exterior members are integrated may be used. The color of the first region on the surface of this single exterior member may be different from the color of the second region different from the first region. In other words, the interchangeable lenses (accessories) in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments may be different from the color of the first region on the surface of the exterior member. In the interchangeable lenses in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, the first region corresponds to the surface region of the first exterior member 107, and the second region corresponds to the surface region of the second exterior member 108.

[0071] In the interchangeable lenses (accessories) in the first, second, third and fourth embodiments described above, the customization operation ring 104 is provided on the object side of the focus operation ring 103. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The customization operation ring 104 may be provided on the image side of the focus operation ring 103. Furthermore, the customization operation ring 104 may be provided on the image side of the zoom operation ring 120.

[0072] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. a first lens unit that moves in an optical axis direction during focusing or zooming; a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in an optical axis direction; a second operation member for changing a first parameter selected from a plurality of parameters different from the parameters changeable by focusing and zooming, An accessory characterized in that the material of the surface of the first operating member is a material that is more easily elastically deformed than the material of the surface of the second operating member.

2. The accessory according to claim 1 , wherein the second operating member is disposed closer to the object side than the first operating member.

3. the first lens unit moves in an optical axis direction during focusing; 3. The accessory according to claim 1, further comprising a first switching unit for switching between an autofocus mode and a manual focus mode.

4. The accessory according to claim 3 , wherein the first switching portion is disposed closer to the image side than the first operation member.

5. The accessory according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first operating member is disposed between the second operating member and the first switching portion.

6. The accessory described in any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a second lens unit that moves in the optical axis direction during zooming, and a third operating member for moving the second lens unit in the optical axis direction.

7. The accessory according to claim 6 , wherein the first switching portion is provided between the first and third operating members.

8. The accessory according to claim 6 , further comprising a second switching unit for switching whether or not to limit movement of the second lens unit in the optical axis direction.

9. The accessory according to claim 8 , wherein the second switching portion is disposed closer to the image side than the third operation member.

10. The accessory according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first and second switching portions are arranged on the same circumference.

11. the first lens unit moves in an optical axis direction during zooming, The accessory according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second switching unit for switching whether or not to limit movement of the first lens unit in the optical axis direction.

12. The accessory according to claim 11 , wherein the second switching portion is disposed closer to the image side than the first operation member.

13. The accessory according to claim 12 , wherein the first operating member is disposed between the second operating member and the second switching portion.

14. A surface of the first operating member is provided with a groove structure, The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that a mesh-like groove structure is provided on a surface of the second operating member.

15. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the width of the first operating member in the optical axis direction is wider than the width of the second operating member in the optical axis direction.

16. 16. An accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the material of the surface of the first operating member is rubber, and the material of the surface of the second operating member is plastic.

17. An intermediate cylinder is disposed between the first and second operating members, The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the first and second operating members are rotatable relative to the intermediate tube.

18. The accessory according to claim 17, characterized in that the width of the intermediate tube in the optical axis direction is narrower than the widths of the first and second operating members in the optical axis direction.

19. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a mechanism for generating a clicking sensation when the second operating member is operated.

20. The accessory according to claim 19, wherein the clicking sensation is not generated when the first operating member is operated.

21. 21. The accessory of claim 1, wherein the plurality of parameters include at least one of an aperture value, a shutter speed, an ISO sensitivity, and an exposure value.

22. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that it is detachable from the imaging device.

23. 23. The accessory of claim 22, wherein the first parameter is selected from the plurality of parameters using a selection means included in the imaging device.

24. An imaging system comprising the accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and an imaging element.

25. An accessory that can be attached to a lens device including a first lens unit that moves in an optical axis direction during focusing or zooming and a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the optical axis direction, and an imaging device, a second operation member for changing a first parameter selected from a plurality of parameters different from the parameters changeable by focusing and zooming; An accessory characterized in that the material of the surface of the second operating member is less prone to elastic deformation than the material of the surface of the first operating member.

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