Accessory, imaging apparatus, method for controlling accessory and imaging apparatus, and program

Abstract

To provide an accessory that can appropriately protect an interchangeable lens or an imaging apparatus.SOLUTION: An accessory (300) is removably mounted between an interchangeable lens (100) and an imaging apparatus (200), and has: communication means (302) that communicates with the interchangeable lens and the imaging apparatus; a protection member (303) that reduces an external element entering the inside of the imaging apparatus through a mount part of the imaging apparatus; and control means (301) that controls the protection member. When receiving information on turn-off of power from the imaging apparatus through the communication means, the control means drives the protection member to reduce the external element. When receiving information on the drive of a first diaphragm unit (114) of the interchangeable lens from the imaging apparatus through the communication means, the control means controls the first diaphragm unit through the communication means. The control means makes the control of the first diaphragm unit different before and after receiving the information on the turn-off of power.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5(B)

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an accessory, an imaging device, a control method for the accessory and the imaging device, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an imaging device configured such that a light beam incident through an interchangeable lens hits an imaging element in a power-off state. In such an imaging device, when the imaging device in the power-off state is accidentally directed toward the sun, the imaging element may be damaged by strong light rays. Further, when the interchangeable lens is removed from the imaging device, dust may enter the imaging device through the opening of the mount and adhere to the imaging element.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration for protecting an imaging element by closing the aperture of an interchangeable lens when turning off the power of the imaging device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1 is effective when an interchangeable lens capable of maintaining a closed aperture state is attached. However, it is not effective for an interchangeable lens having no aperture or an interchangeable lens in which power supply is cut off while the aperture is in a narrowed state, which may cause a failure. Further, even in an interchangeable lens capable of maintaining a closed aperture state, although damage to the imaging element can be avoided, the aperture of the interchangeable lens may be damaged.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an accessory capable of appropriately protecting an interchangeable lens or an imaging device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An accessory according to one aspect of the present invention is an accessory that is detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, and includes communication means for communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device, a protection member for reducing external elements that enter the interior of the imaging device via a mount portion of the imaging device, and control means for controlling the protection member. When information regarding power-off is received from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means drives the protection member so as to reduce the external elements. When information regarding driving of a first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens is received from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means controls the first aperture unit via the communication means, and the control means controls the first aperture unit differently before and after receiving the information regarding the power-off.

[0008] Other objects and features of the present invention will be described in the following embodiments.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an accessory capable of appropriately protecting an interchangeable lens or an imaging device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5(A)

Figure 5(B)

Figure 5(C)

Figure 6

Figure 7

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each figure, the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

EXAMPLE

[0012] <Configuration of Camera System> First, referring to FIG. 1, a camera system (imaging system) 10 in Example 1 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the camera system 10. The camera system 10 includes an interchangeable lens 100, a camera body (imaging device) 200, and an intermediate accessory (accessory) 300 that is detachably attached between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100. The camera body 200 can be attached to the intermediate accessory 300 and can be used in a state where both the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 are attached. In this example, the intermediate accessory 300 is composed of one accessory, but it may be composed of a plurality of accessories.

[0013] In this example, communication is performed between the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300. The interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300 transmit control commands and data (information) via their respective communication circuits (communication means) 112, 208, 302.

[0014] The specific configurations of the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300 will be described below. The interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 are mechanically and electrically connected via the mount 400. The mount 400 schematically shows a state in which the mount portion provided on the interchangeable lens 100 and the mount portion provided on the intermediate accessory 300 are coupled. The camera body 200 and the intermediate accessory 300 are mechanically and electrically connected via the mount 401. The mount 401 schematically shows a state in which the mount portion provided on the camera body 200 and the mount portion provided on the intermediate accessory 300 are coupled. Communication terminals are provided on the mount surfaces of the mount portions provided on each of the interchangeable lens 100, the camera body 200, and the intermediate accessory 300. In a state where each unit is connected via the mount, communication via the communication terminals becomes possible when the corresponding communication terminals come into contact with each other.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 100 receives power supply from the camera body 200 via power supply terminals (not shown) provided on the mounts 400 and 401, and supplies power to various actuators and a lens microcomputer (lens microcontroller) 111 described later. The intermediate accessory 300 receives power supply from the camera body 200 via a power supply terminal (not shown) provided on the mount 401, and supplies power to an accessory microcomputer (control means (accessory microcontroller)) 301.

[0016] The configuration of the interchangeable lens 100 will be described below. The interchangeable lens 100 has an imaging optical system. The imaging optical system includes, in order from the object side to the image side, a field lens 101, a zoom lens 102 that performs zooming, a diaphragm unit 114 that adjusts the light amount, an anti-shake lens 103, and a focus lens 104 that performs focus adjustment.

[0017] The zoom lens 102 and the focus lens 104 are respectively held by lens holding frames 105 and 106. The stepping motors 107 and 108 drive the lens holding frames 105 and 106 along the optical axis of the imaging optical system indicated by the dashed line in synchronization with drive pulses. The anti-shake lens 103 moves in a direction including a component in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the imaging optical system, thereby reducing image blur caused by camera shake or the like.

[0018] The lens microcomputer 111 controls the operations of each part within the interchangeable lens 100. The lens microcomputer 111 receives control commands and transmission request commands transmitted from the camera body 200 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. The lens microcomputer 111 performs lens control corresponding to the control commands and transmits lens data corresponding to the transmission request commands to the camera body 200 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the lens communication circuit 112. For example, in response to commands related to zooming and focusing among the control commands, the lens microcomputer 111 outputs drive signals to the zoom drive circuit 119 and the focus drive circuit 120 to drive the stepping motors 107 and 108. Thereby, zoom processing for controlling the zoom operation by the zoom lens 102 and AF (auto focus) processing for controlling the focus adjustment operation by the focus lens 104 are performed.

[0019] The aperture unit 114 is a diaphragm aperture unit (first aperture unit) having aperture blades 114a and 114b. The Hall element 115 detects the states (positions) of the aperture blades 114a and 114b. The detection result by the Hall element 115 is input to the lens microcomputer 111 via the amplifier circuit 122 and the A / D conversion circuit 123. The lens microcomputer 111 outputs a drive signal to the aperture drive circuit 121 based on the input signal from the A / D conversion circuit 123 to drive the aperture actuator 113. Thereby, the light amount adjustment operation by the aperture unit 114 is performed. Note that the drive method of the aperture actuator 113 is not limited, and a known method may be used.

[0020] Furthermore, the lens microcomputer 111 drives an anti-shake actuator 126 such as a voice coil motor via an anti-shake drive circuit 125 in response to shake detected by a shake sensor (not shown) such as a vibration gyro provided in the interchangeable lens 100. Thereby, anti-shake processing for controlling the shift operation (anti-shake operation) of the anti-shake lens 103 is performed.

[0021] Note that the plurality of lenses included in the interchangeable lens 100 are merely an example, and configurations may include those without the zoom lens 102, those without the anti-shake lens 103, those without the focus lens 104, and the like. Also, at least one of zoom processing, AF processing, and anti-shake processing may be performed by controlling a plurality of lenses.

[0022] Hereinafter, the configuration of the intermediate accessory 300 will be described. The intermediate accessory 300 includes an accessory microcomputer 301 and controls various members included in the intermediate accessory. The accessory microcomputer 301 receives a control command or a transmission request command transmitted from the camera body 200 via the accessory communication circuit 302. The accessory microcomputer 301 performs accessory control in response to the control command or transmits a control command to the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302. Then, based on the result of the accessory control or the information received from the interchangeable lens 100 via the accessory communication circuit 302, a response corresponding to the transmission request command received from the camera body 200 is transmitted to the camera body 200. Also, the accessory microcomputer 301 does not necessarily transmit a transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 only in response to a communication request from the camera body 200.

[0023] In addition, the intermediate accessory 300 includes an accessory operation unit 320. The accessory operation unit 320 is, for example, a switch, a button, a touch panel, etc., and may include a plurality of operation members.

[0024] In addition, the intermediate accessory 300 includes a protection member (second protection member) 303 that blocks incident light from the interchangeable lens 100 with respect to the mount 401 and can prevent the entry of water droplets such as dust and raindrops. In other words, the protection member 303 reduces external elements such as light (incident light), dust, and water droplets that enter the inside of the camera body 200 through the mount portion of the camera body 200. The protection member 303 has, for example, light-shielding curtains 303a and 303b. The accessory microcomputer 301 outputs a drive signal to a drive circuit 305 that drives the protection member 303, thereby driving the protection member actuator 304. As a result, the light-shielding curtains 303a and 303b are driven, and the open / closed state of the protection member 303 is controlled. Note that the protection member 303 is not limited to a configuration having a light-shielding curtain as long as it is a member that can block incident light from the interchangeable lens 100 and prevent the entry of dust and water droplets. The protection member 303 may be configured to include, for example, an aperture diaphragm unit (second diaphragm unit) similar to the diaphragm unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100. In either the configuration where the protection member 303 is the light-shielding curtains 303a and 303b or the configuration where it is an aperture diaphragm unit, external elements that enter the inside of the camera body 200 through the mount portion of the camera body 200 can be reduced by closing the protection member 303. Also, the intermediate accessory 300 may have, for example, the function of an extender for changing the focal length, a wide converter for changing the focal length, or the function of a mount converter for changing the flange back length.

[0025] Hereinafter, the configuration of the camera body 200 will be described. The camera body 200 includes an imaging element 201 such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor, an A / D conversion circuit 202, a signal processing circuit 203, a recording unit 204, a camera microcomputer (camera microcomputer) 205, a display unit 206, and a protection member (first protection member) 209.

[0026] The imaging device 201 photoelectrically converts a subject image formed by the imaging optical system within the interchangeable lens 100 and outputs an electrical signal (analog signal). The A / D conversion circuit 202 converts the analog signal from the imaging device 201 into a digital signal. The signal processing circuit 203 performs various image processes on the digital signal from the A / D conversion circuit 202 to generate a video signal.

[0027] Also, the signal processing circuit 203 generates focus information indicating the contrast state of the subject image, that is, the focus state of the imaging optical system, and luminance information representing the exposure state, from the video signal. The signal processing circuit 203 outputs the video signal to the display unit 206, and the display unit 206 displays the video signal as a live view image used for confirmation of the composition, focus state, etc.

[0028] The camera microcomputer 205 controls the camera body 200 according to inputs from the operation unit 207 such as the imaging instruction switch and various setting switches. Also, the camera microcomputer 205 transmits a control command and a transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the camera communication circuit 208, and receives lens data or accessory data from the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300. For example, the camera microcomputer 205 generates defocus information in the signal processing circuit 203 based on information related to optical characteristics such as the aperture information of the diaphragm received from the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300 via the camera communication circuit 208. Then, the camera microcomputer 205 generates focus information based on the generated defocus information and transmits a control command regarding the focus adjustment operation to the interchangeable lens 100. Also, for example, the camera microcomputer 205 transmits a transmission request command for acquiring lens data regarding the focus adjustment operation to the interchangeable lens 100 and receives the lens data regarding the focus adjustment operation from the interchangeable lens 100. The protection member 209 shields the light beam incident on the mount 401 from the interchangeable lens 100 via the intermediate accessory 300, and protects the imaging device 201 by preventing the intrusion of dust and water droplets. The protection member 209 is configured to include, for example, a focal plane shutter or a light-shielding curtain.

[0029] Next, with reference to FIG. 2, each communication unit of the camera body 200, the intermediate accessory 300, and the interchangeable lens 100 will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the lens communication circuit 112, the accessory communication circuit 302, and the camera communication circuit 208.

[0030] The mount 400 provided between the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 is provided with various communication terminals. The interchangeable lens 100 is provided with communication terminals (LCLK1121, DCL1122, DLC1123, ATTACH1124, POWER1125). The intermediate accessory 300 is provided with communication terminals (LCLK3021, DCL3022, DLC3023, ATTACH3024, POWER3025). By ATTACH3024, the intermediate accessory 300 can determine the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 100, and power is supplied by POWER3025. Communication is possible using other communication terminals.

[0031] Similarly, the mount 401 provided between the intermediate accessory 300 and the camera body 200 is also provided with various communication terminals. The intermediate accessory 300 is provided with communication terminals (LCLK3026, DCL3027, DLC3028, ATTACH3029, POWER3030). The camera body 200 is provided with communication terminals (LCLK2081, DCL2082, DLC2083, ATTACH2084, POWER2085). By ATTACH2084, the camera body 200 can determine the mounting state of the intermediate accessory 300, and power is supplied by POWER2085. Communication is possible using other communication terminals. Note that ATTACH2084 may be configured such that when the interchangeable lens 100 is mounted on the intermediate accessory 300 (ATTACH3024 indicates the mounted state) and the intermediate accessory 300 is mounted on the camera body 200, it becomes the signal state of the mounted state.

[0032] Next, with reference to FIGS. 3(A) to 3(C), an example of the communication method performed using each terminal between the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300, and between the intermediate accessory 300 and the camera body 200 will be described. FIGS. 3(A) to 3(C) are explanatory diagrams of an example of a communication protocol implemented between the camera body 200, the intermediate accessory 300, and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0033] This communication is implemented by a three-wire clock-synchronous serial communication method, and is a communication method performed between a device as a communication main body that transmits a control command or a data transmission request command and a device as a communication sub that performs data transmission in response to the data transmission request command. As the communication process performed between the camera body 200 and the intermediate accessory 300, communication is performed with the camera communication circuit 208 as the communication main body and the accessory communication circuit 302 as the communication sub. As the communication process performed between the intermediate accessory 300 and the interchangeable lens 100, communication is performed with the accessory communication circuit 302 as the communication main body and the lens communication circuit 112 as the communication sub.

[0034] The clock signal LCLK is mainly used as a data synchronization clock signal from the communication main body to the communication sub. The communication signal DCL is used for data transmission such as a control command or a data transmission request command from the communication main body to the communication sub. The data signal DLC is used for data transmission transmitted from the communication sub to the communication main body. The communication main body and the communication sub communicate in a full-duplex communication method (full duplex method) that transmits and receives mutually and simultaneously in synchronization with the common clock signal LCLK.

[0035] Figure 3(A) shows the waveform of the communication signal of one frame, which is the minimum communication unit. First, the communication main transmits a clock signal LCLK with a set of 8 - cycle pulses, and at the same time, transmits a communication signal DCL to the communication sub in synchronization with the clock signal LCLK. The communication main also receives a data signal DLC output from the communication sub in synchronization with the clock signal LCLK. In this way, between the communication main and the communication sub, one byte (8 bits) of data is transmitted and received in synchronization with a set of clock signals LCLK. The period of one - byte data transmission and reception is called a data frame. After the data frame, a communication standby request information (hereinafter simply referred to as communication standby request) BUSY, which is notified from the communication sub to the communication main, inserts a communication pause period. The communication pause period is called a BUSY frame. A communication unit consisting of one data frame and one BUSY frame is called one frame.

[0036] Figure 3(B) shows the waveform of the communication signal composed of 3 frames, in which the communication main transmits a command CMD1 to the communication sub and receives 2 - byte data DT1a and DT1b in response. Between the communication main and the communication sub, the type and number of bytes of the data DT corresponding to each command CMD are determined in advance.

[0037] In the first frame, the communication main transmits the clock signal LCLK and transmits the command CMD1 corresponding to the data DT1a and DT1b requesting transmission as the communication signal DCL. The data signal DLC in this frame is treated as invalid data.

[0038] Subsequently, after the communication main outputs the clock signal LCLK for 8 cycles, it switches the communication terminal state on the communication main side from the output format to the input format. After the switching of the communication terminal state on the communication main side is completed, the communication sub switches the communication terminal state on the communication sub side from the input format to the output format. Then, the communication sub sets the signal level of the clock signal LCLK to LOW to notify the communication standby request BUSY to the communication main. The communication main maintains the communication terminal state in the input format during the period when the communication standby request BUSY is notified and pauses communication with the communication sub.

[0039] During the notification period of the communication standby request BUSY, the communication sub generates data DT1a corresponding to the command CMD1. After completing the preparation for transmission as the data signal DLC of the next frame, the communication sub sets the signal level of the clock signal LCLK to HIGH to notify the communication main of the release of the communication standby request BUSY. When the communication main recognizes the release of the communication standby request BUSY, it receives the data DT1a from the communication sub by transmitting one frame of the clock signal LCLK to the communication sub. Subsequently, in the same manner, the communication main receives the data DT1b.

[0040] Figure 3(C) shows that the communication main transmits the command CMD2 to the communication sub to request the acquisition of communication data, and transmits DT2A, DT2B, and DT2C from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100. And from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera body 200, the corresponding 3-byte lens data DT2a, DT2b, and DT2c are transmitted, showing the waveform of a communication signal composed of 4 frames. The communication sub notifies the communication main of the communication standby request BUSY in the first frame, but does not notify the communication main of the communication standby request BUSY from the second frame to the fourth frame. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the interval between frames. On the other hand, in this communication method, the communication sub cannot notify the communication main of the communication standby request BUSY. For this reason, it is necessary to create information to respond to the communication main during the communication standby request BUSY after receiving the command CMD2 in the first frame, or to prepare in advance the information to be responded to the communication main before performing this communication.

[0041] Next, with reference to FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), the appearance of the intermediate accessory 300 in this embodiment will be described. FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B) are external views of the intermediate accessory 300. FIG. 4(A) shows the inside of the mount 400 on the interchangeable lens 100 side, and the lens-side communication terminal 402 corresponds to LCLK3021, DCL3022, DLC3023, ATTACH3024, and POWER3025 in FIG. 2. FIG. 4(B) shows the inside of the mount 401 on the camera body 200 side, and the camera-side communication terminal 403 corresponds to LCLK3026, DCL3027, DLC3028, ATTACH3029, and POWER3030 in FIG. 2.

[0042] Next, with reference to FIG. 5(A), the operation of aperture drive in the live view image display state on the display unit 206 of the camera body 200 in a state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300 are combined will be described. FIG. 5(A) is an explanatory diagram of the operation of aperture drive in the live view image display state.

[0043] In process 540, the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 requests the intermediate accessory 300 to drive the aperture so that the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 reaches a predetermined aperture state. For example, when the user operates the dial of the operation unit 207 of the camera body 200, this is a request to set the aperture state corresponding to the set aperture value.

[0044] In process 541, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 requests the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the aperture. The aperture drive request from the intermediate accessory 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 has the same content as the aperture drive request from the camera body 200 to the intermediate accessory 300 in process 540. Here, the communication methods between the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are different. When the intermediate accessory 300 is a mount converter, the intermediate accessory 300 edits the communication data according to the communication method of the interchangeable lens 100.

[0045] In process 542, the lens microcomputer 111 of the interchangeable lens 100 drives the aperture unit 114 to achieve the aperture state requested by the camera body 200. Then, in process 543, the lens microcomputer 111 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of the completion of the aperture drive.

[0046] In process 544, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 notifies the camera body 200 of the completion of the aperture drive.

[0047] The aperture drive in the live view image display state has been described above. Although details will be described later with reference to FIG. 5(B), for the aperture drive request before receiving the power-off request from the camera body 200, communication is executed from the intermediate accessory 300 to the interchangeable lens 100 so that the contents are equivalent.

[0048] Next, with reference to FIG. 5(B), the operation when powering off in the state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300 are combined (when switching from the power-on state to the power-off state) will be described. FIG. 5(B) is an explanatory diagram of the operation when powering off.

[0049] In process 500, the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 requests the intermediate accessory 300 to perform processing related to power-off (execute processing when changing from the power-on state to the power-off state) (transmit information related to power-off). That is, the accessory microcomputer 301 receives a power-off request (information related to power-off) from the camera body 200.

[0050] In process 501, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 recognizes that processing related to power-off has been requested and starts driving the protection member 303. The protection member 303 is driven from the open state to the closed state so as to block the light beam incident on the mount 401 from the interchangeable lens 100 via the intermediate accessory 300. The protection member 303 is preferably composed of a light-shielding curtain or an aperture (iris aperture) similar to the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100, but is not limited thereto.

[0051] In process 502, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 requests the aperture to be driven to open for the interchangeable lens 100.

[0052] In process 503, the lens microcomputer 111 drives the aperture unit 114 and controls it to be in an open state. Note that if the amount of aperture reduction from the open state is smaller than a predetermined amount, the aperture may be regarded as being in an open state even if it is not completely open. Then, in process 504, the lens microcomputer 111 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of the completion of the aperture open drive.

[0053] In process 505, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 requests the interchangeable lens 100 to perform power-off related processing.

[0054] In process 506, the lens microcomputer 111 executes power-off related processing. For example, processing by the lens microcomputer 111 such as storing the position information of the focus lens 104 in a non-illustrated non-volatile memory configured in the interchangeable lens 100 or locking the anti-vibration unit provided with a locking mechanism is performed during this process. Then, in process 507, the lens microcomputer 111 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of the completion of the power-off related processing.

[0055] In process 508, the accessory microcomputer 301 waits until the driving of the protection member started in process 501 is completed. After the driving of the protection member is completed, in process 509, the accessory microcomputer 301 notifies the camera body 200 of the completion of the power-off related processing. In this embodiment, the driving of the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 started in process 501 and the open driving of the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 are executed in parallel, but it is not limited to this. For example, when it is difficult to drive these simultaneously due to the power supply situation from the camera body 200, they may be controlled to be driven exclusively.

[0056] In process 510, the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 issues a diaphragm drive request to the intermediate accessory 300. The diaphragm drive request is for closing the diaphragm of the interchangeable lens 100 for the purpose of protecting the imaging element 201.

[0057] In process 511, the accessory microcomputer 301 recognizes that the diaphragm drive request is after the request for the power-off process, discards the diaphragm drive request from the camera body 200 without issuing a request regarding diaphragm drive to the interchangeable lens 100. As a result, the open state of the diaphragm unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 continues. Then, in process 514, the accessory microcomputer 301 notifies the camera body 200 of the completion of the diaphragm drive. Although an example of driving the protection member 303 in process 501 after receiving the request for the power-off process in process 500 has been described, the protection member 303 may be driven at another timing as long as it is after receiving the request for the power-off process and before cutting off the drive power in process 515. For example, the protection member 303 may be driven at the timing of receiving the diaphragm drive request in process 510. Also, regarding the diaphragm opening drive request for the interchangeable lens 100 in process 502, it may be executed at another timing after receiving the power-off and before cutting off the drive power in process 515. Furthermore, regarding the diaphragm drive request to the interchangeable lens 100 in process 502, although it is preferably executed, if the diaphragm is sufficiently close to the open state, it may be considered that the possibility of being damaged by sunlight or the like is low, and the diaphragm drive request to the interchangeable lens 100 itself may be omitted.

[0058] In process 515, the camera microcomputer 205 cuts off the driving power supplied to the interchangeable lens 100 and the intermediate accessory 300 by POWER2085. Then, in process 516, after the camera microcomputer 205 drives the protection member 209 of the camera body 200 to protect the imaging element 201, the camera body 200 is shifted to the power-off state. The protection member 209 has a focal plane shutter, a light-shielding curtain, etc. Note that when the camera body 200 detects that the intermediate accessory 300 having the protection member 303 is attached through the communication circuit, it may not drive the protection member 209 in process 516. This is because the incident light beam to the mount 401 is shielded by the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300, and the camera body 200 is protected. In this case, the consumption of the durability times of the member due to driving the protection member 209 of the camera body 200 at the time of power-off can be reduced. That is, the camera microcomputer 205 transmits a power-off request to the intermediate accessory 300, and when the intermediate accessory 300 protects the mount portion of the camera body 200 using the protection member 303, it does not drive the protection member 209.

[0059] As described above, in this embodiment, when the accessory microcomputer 301 receives information regarding power-off (power-off request) from the camera body 200, the accessory microcomputer 301 drives the protection member 303. Also, in this embodiment, when the accessory microcomputer 301 receives information regarding driving of the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 from the camera body 200, the accessory microcomputer 301 controls the aperture unit 114 via the accessory communication circuit 302. Also, the accessory microcomputer 301 controls the aperture unit 114 differently before and after receiving the information regarding power-off.

[0060] As described above, in this embodiment, the intermediate accessory 300 recognizes a request for power-off processing directed from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100, drives the protection member 303, and drives the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 to an open state. Further, the intermediate accessory 300 discards an aperture drive request received after the request for power-off processing and continues the open state of the aperture of the interchangeable lens 100. Thereby, even when a strong light beam due to sunlight or the like is incident on the camera body 200 in the power-off state, damage to each member of the camera body 200 such as the imaging element and the shutter and each member of the interchangeable lens 100 such as the aperture can be avoided.

[0061] In particular, when an extender for changing the focal length has the function as the intermediate accessory 300 of this embodiment, the effect is great from the viewpoint of protecting members such as an expensive super-telephoto lens that is often used in combination. Also, although the description is omitted, when the power of the camera body 200 is turned on, the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 that was closed during power-off is driven to open. Generally, the light-shielding curtain can be driven faster than the aperture. Therefore, when the protection member 303 is constituted by a light-shielding curtain, it is possible to speed up the startup time of the camera body 200 as compared with the case of realizing protection of the imaging element by closing the aperture of the interchangeable lens as in the prior art.

[0062] Next, with reference to FIG. 5(C), the operation when the interchangeable lens 100 in this embodiment is removed from the intermediate accessory 300 will be described. FIG. 5(C) is an explanatory diagram of the operation when the interchangeable lens 100 is removed from the intermediate accessory 300.

[0063] In process 520, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 detects that the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed by ATTACH3024 (a signal indicating a change in the state of the interchangeable lens 100).

[0064] In process 521, the accessory microcomputer 301 does not change the state of the ATTACH3029 signal (keeps the signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is mounted or not in the mounted state). That is, the accessory microcomputer 301 maintains, as a status signal, a signal indicating that the interchangeable lens 100 is mounted from the time it receives ATTACH3024 from the interchangeable lens 100 until the driving of the protection member 303 is completed. Here, the status signal is a signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is mounted on the intermediate accessory 300 or not, sent from the intermediate accessory 300 to the camera body 200. Thereby, the camera body 200 is delayed from detecting that the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed, and the supply of driving power from the camera body 200 is maintained. Then, in process 522, the accessory microcomputer 301 starts driving the protection member 303.

[0065] After that, in process 523, even if the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 requests any process from the intermediate accessory 300, the accessory microcomputer 301 does not perform the process, and in process 524, the accessory microcomputer 301 executes a dummy response to the camera body 200.

[0066] In process 525, the accessory microcomputer 301 waits for the completion of driving of the protection member 303. Then, in process 526 after the driving is completed, the accessory microcomputer 301 changes the state of the ATTACH3029 signal (changes it to a signal indicating that the interchangeable lens 100 is in the unmounted state). Thereby, the camera body 200 can detect the removal (unmounted state) of the interchangeable lens 100. In this embodiment, the lens microcomputer 111 changes the state of the ATTACH3029 signal after confirming the completion of driving of the protection member 303, but it is not limited to this. When the time required for driving the protection member 303 can be estimated as a fixed time, the electric circuit may be configured to delay the predetermined time.

[0067] In process 527, the camera microcomputer 205 detects that the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed due to a change in the state of the ATTACH2084 signal (a change in the state of the interchangeable lens 100). Then, in process 528, POWER2085 cuts off the driving power supplied to the intermediate accessory 300 and the interchangeable lens 100.

[0068] In process 529, the camera microcomputer 205 drives the protection member 209 of the camera body 200 to protect the imaging device 201 so that dust, water droplets, etc. do not adhere to the imaging device 201. Similar to the driving of the protection member in process 516 of FIG. 5(B), when the camera body 200 detects the attachment of the intermediate accessory 300 provided with the protection member 303, it may not be necessary to drive the protection member 209. However, when the intermediate accessory 300 is subsequently removed after the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed, there is a possibility that dust and water droplets may enter the inside of the camera body 200 from the mount 401. For this reason, even when the attachment of the intermediate accessory 300 provided with the protection member 303 is detected, it is more preferable to drive the protection member 209 of the camera body 200.

[0069] Thus, in this embodiment, when the accessory microcomputer 301 receives a signal regarding a change in the state of the interchangeable lens 100 (a signal indicating that the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed) via the accessory communication circuit 302, it drives the protection member 303.

[0070] As described above, in this embodiment, the intermediate accessory 300 recognizes that the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed, drives the protection member 303, and then causes the camera body 200 to detect the removal. That is, when the accessory microcomputer 301 receives a signal regarding a change in the state of the interchangeable lens 100 (a signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the intermediate accessory 300) via the accessory communication circuit 302, it drives the protection member 303. Thereby, it is possible to prevent dust, water droplets, etc. that have entered the inside of the intermediate accessory 300 from further entering the camera body 200 in a state where the interchangeable lens 100 has been removed.

Embodiment

[0071] Next, Example 2 of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the camera system in this example is the same as that in Example 1. The camera system in this example requests the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the aperture to open in response to an aperture drive request after a request for power-off related processing by the intermediate accessory 300.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 6, the operation at the time of power-off in a state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300 of this example are combined will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the operation at the time of power-off in this example.

[0073] Since processes 600 to 601 in FIG. 6 are the same as processes 500 to 501 in Example 1 (FIG. 5(B)), respectively, their descriptions are omitted. After that, in Example 1, the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 is driven to the open state based on a request from the intermediate accessory 300 in processes 502 to 504, but this process is omitted in this example. Note that it is not essential to omit this process, but since the aperture 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 is driven to the open state by process 611 described later, it becomes redundant. Also, since processes 605 to 609 in FIG. 6 are the same as processes 505 to 509 in Example 1 (FIG. 5(B)), respectively, their descriptions are omitted.

[0074] In process 610, the camera body 200 requests the intermediate accessory 300 to drive to close the aperture of the interchangeable lens 100.

[0075] In process 611, the accessory microcomputer 301 recognizes that it is an aperture drive request after a request for power-off related processing. Then, the accessory microcomputer 301 edits the content to open the aperture and requests the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the aperture to open.

[0076] In process 612, the lens microcomputer 111 drives the diaphragm unit 114 to open the diaphragm. Similar to the diaphragm opening drive in process 503 of the first embodiment, if the amount of diaphragm narrowing from the open state is smaller than a predetermined amount, even if it is not in a completely open state, it may be regarded as being in an open state. Then, in process 613, the lens microcomputer 111 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of the completion of the diaphragm opening drive.

[0077] In process 614, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 notifies the camera body 200 of the completion of the diaphragm drive.

[0078] Processes 615 to 616 are the same as processes 515 to 516 of the first embodiment, respectively, so their descriptions are omitted.

[0079] As described above, in this embodiment, the intermediate accessory 300 recognizes the request for the power-off process from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 and drives the protection member 303. Also, in the diaphragm drive request received after the request for the power-off process, the intermediate accessory 300 edits the content and requests the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the diaphragm to open, putting the diaphragm of the interchangeable lens 100 in an open state. Thereby, even when a strong light beam such as sunlight is incident on the camera body 200 in the power-off state, damage to each member of the camera body 200 such as the imaging element and the shutter and each member of the interchangeable lens 100 such as the diaphragm unit 114 can be avoided.

Embodiment

[0080] Next, Example 3 of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the camera system in this example is the same as that in Example 1. As an operation when the power is off, the user can select whether to protect the mount portion of the camera body 200 with the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 or to protect it with the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100. The selection by the user can be executed on a menu screen displayed on the display unit 206 of the camera body 200 or the like. Alternatively, it may be selected by switching a switch provided on the accessory operation unit 320 of the intermediate accessory 300, and configured such that the switch state is propagated to the camera body 200. Thus, the display unit 206 or the switch or the like functions as a selection means capable of selecting whether to reduce external elements using the protection member 303 or to reduce external elements using the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100.

[0081] When the power supply to the interchangeable lens 100 is cut off while the aperture is stopped down, there is a possibility that it may malfunction. Also, there are interchangeable lenses that do not have an aperture. In this case, even if the user selects to protect the mount portion of the camera body 200 with the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100, it is preferable to protect the mount portion of the camera body 200 with the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300. That is, the accessory microcomputer 301 determines whether it is possible to stop down the aperture unit 114 during power-off. When the aperture unit 114 cannot be stopped down, even if it is selected by the selection means to protect the mount portion of the camera body 200 using the aperture unit 114, the protection member 303 is controlled to protect the mount portion using the protection member 303.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 7, the operation when the power is off in the state where the camera body 200, the interchangeable lens 100, and the intermediate accessory 300 of this embodiment are combined will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the operation when the power is off in this embodiment. In this embodiment, the operation of protecting the mount portion of the camera body 200 by the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 will be described. Note that in this embodiment, the operation of protecting the mount portion of the camera body 200 by the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 is the same as the description in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2, and thus will be omitted.

[0083] In process 700, the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 requests the intermediate accessory 300 to perform processing related to power-off. Information regarding whether to protect the mount 401 by the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 or by the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 is also attached to the communication data. Note that the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 may notify the intermediate accessory 300 in advance by another communication. As described in Embodiment 1, when the mount 401 is protected by the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300, the intermediate accessory 300 then drives the protection member 303 and requests the interchangeable lens 100 to perform an aperture open drive. However, when the mount 401 of the camera body 200 is protected by the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100, this process is not performed. However, the driving of the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300 may be performed.

[0084] Processes 705 to 707 and 709 are the same as processes 505 to 507 and 509 in Embodiment 1 (FIG. 5(B)), respectively, and thus their descriptions will be omitted.

[0085] In process 710, the camera microcomputer 205 of the camera body 200 requests the intermediate accessory 300 to perform a drive to close the aperture unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100.

[0086] In process 711, the accessory microcomputer 301 recognizes that it is a diaphragm drive request after a request for power-off processing, but does not discard the request as in the first embodiment or edit the content as in the second embodiment. Then, in order to protect the mount 401 by the diaphragm unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100, the accessory microcomputer 301 requests a diaphragm drive for the interchangeable lens 100.

[0087] In process 712, the lens microcomputer 111 executes control to drive the diaphragm unit 114 to close the diaphragm. Then, in process 713, the lens microcomputer 111 notifies the intermediate accessory 300 of the completion of the diaphragm drive.

[0088] In process 714, the accessory microcomputer 301 of the intermediate accessory 300 notifies the camera body 200 of the completion of the diaphragm drive.

[0089] Processes 715 to 716 are the same as processes 515 to 516 of the first embodiment, respectively, and thus their descriptions are omitted.

[0090] As described above, in this embodiment, as an operation when the power is off, the user can select whether to protect the mount portion of the camera body 200 by the diaphragm unit 114 of the interchangeable lens 100 or by the protection member 303 of the intermediate accessory 300. Accordingly, based on the user's selection, it is possible to preferentially use a member of either the interchangeable lens 100 or the intermediate accessory 300 to protect each part of the camera body 200, such as an imaging element and a shutter, from incident light such as sunlight.

[0091] [Other Embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and causing one or more processors in a computer of the system or device to read and execute the program. Further, it can also be realized by a circuit (for example, an ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0092] According to each embodiment, it is possible to avoid damage to the aperture unit of the interchangeable lens, the imaging element of the imaging device, the shutter, etc., and to reduce the adhesion of dust and water droplets to the imaging element. Therefore, according to each embodiment, it is possible to provide an accessory, an imaging device, a control method of the accessory and the imaging device, and a program that can appropriately protect the interchangeable lens or the imaging device.

[0093] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following configurations and methods. (Configuration 1) An accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, communication means for communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device, a protection member for reducing external elements entering the interior of the imaging device through the mount portion of the imaging device, control means for controlling the protection member, and having, when receiving information regarding power-off from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means drives the protection member so as to reduce the external elements, when receiving information regarding driving of a first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means controls the first aperture unit via the communication means, The control means is characterized in that it controls the first aperture unit differently before and after receiving the information regarding the power-off. An accessory. (Configuration 2) The protection member has a light-shielding curtain for shielding incident light which is the external element, and the accessory according to Configuration 1. (Configuration 3) The protection member has a second aperture unit for shielding incident light which is the external element, and the accessory according to Configuration 1. (Configuration 4) The control means determines whether or not to drive the protection member so as to reduce the external elements when detecting that the information regarding the power-off has been received from the imaging device. When it is determined to drive the protection member, start driving the protection member, While the protection member is being driven, communicate with the imaging device via the communication means so that power supply from the imaging device is maintained. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3. (Configuration 5) The control means, Before receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, transmit the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit received from the imaging device to the interchangeable lens via the communication means, After receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, do not transmit the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit to the interchangeable lens. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4. (Configuration 6) The control means, Before receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, transmit the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit received from the imaging device to the interchangeable lens via the communication means, After receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, request an open drive of the first aperture unit to the interchangeable lens via the communication means. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 1 to 4. (Configuration 7) The accessory according to any one of Configurations 1 to 6, further comprising selection means capable of selecting whether to reduce the external element using the protection member or to reduce the external element using the first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens (Configuration 8) The control means, During power-off, determine whether it is possible to close the first aperture unit, When it is determined that the first aperture unit cannot be narrowed down, even if it is selected by the selection means to reduce the external element using the first aperture unit, the protection member is controlled to reduce the external element using the protection member. The accessory according to Configuration 7. (Configuration 9) The information regarding the power-off is transmitted from the imaging device to the accessory and is a request for processing when changing from the power-on state to the power-off state. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 1 to 8. (Configuration 10) An accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, Communication means for communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device, A protection member for reducing external elements entering the imaging device through the mount portion of the imaging device, Control means for controlling the protection member, and having When the control means receives a signal regarding a change in the state of the interchangeable lens via the communication means, the protection member is driven so that the external element is reduced. The accessory. (Configuration 11) The protection member has a light-shielding curtain for preventing the entry of dust, which is the external element. The accessory according to Configuration 10. (Configuration 12) The protection member has a second aperture unit for preventing the entry of dust, which is the external element. The accessory according to Configuration 10. (Configuration 13) The signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens is a signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens is attached to the accessory. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 10 to 12. (Configuration 14) The control means communicates with the imaging device via the communication means so that power supply from the imaging device is maintained from the reception of the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 10 to 13. (Configuration 15) The control means transmits, to the imaging device via the communication means, a status signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens is in a state of being attached to the accessory or not attached to the accessory. The control means maintains, as the status signal, a signal indicating the state in which the interchangeable lens is attached from the reception of the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 10 to 14. (Configuration 16) The control means makes a dummy response to a communication request from the imaging device from the reception of the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of Configurations 10 to 15. (Configuration 17) An imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, An imaging element, A first protection member that protects the imaging element, Communication means for communicating with the accessory, Control means for controlling the first protection member, and has The accessory has a second protection member that reduces external elements entering the inside of the imaging device via the mount portion of the imaging device. The control means transmits information regarding power-off to the accessory via the communication means, and when the accessory reduces the external elements using the second protection member, does not drive the first protection member. The imaging device. (Configuration 18) An imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, An imaging element, a first protection member that protects the imaging device; communication means for communicating with the accessory; control means for controlling the first protection member, and having, the accessory has a second protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through the mount portion of the imaging device, when the control means receives a signal indicating driving of the second protection member from the accessory via the communication means, the imaging device is characterized in that the first protection member is not driven. (Method 1) A control method for an accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device via communication means; controlling a protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through the mount portion of the imaging device; controlling a first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens via the communication means, and having, when receiving information regarding power-off from the imaging device via the communication means, driving the protection member so as to reduce the external elements, when receiving information regarding driving of the first aperture unit from the imaging device via the communication means, controlling the first aperture unit, A control method for an accessory, characterized in that control of the first aperture unit is made different before and after receiving the information regarding power-off. (Method 2) A control method for an accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device via communication means; controlling a protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through the mount portion of the imaging device, and having, A control method for an accessory, characterized in that when a signal regarding a change in the state of the interchangeable lens is received via the communication means, the protection member is driven so as to reduce the external element. (Configuration 19) A program, characterized in that the computer executes the accessory control method according to Method 1 or 2. (Method 3) A control method for an imaging device capable of mounting an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, comprising: communicating with the accessory via communication means; controlling a first protection member for protecting an imaging element. The accessory has a second protection member for reducing an external element entering the inside of the imaging device via a mount portion of the imaging device. A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that information regarding power-off is transmitted to the accessory via the communication means, and when the accessory reduces the external element using the second protection member, the first protection member is not driven. (Method 4) A control method for an imaging device capable of mounting an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, comprising: communicating with the accessory via communication means; controlling a first protection member for protecting an imaging element. The accessory has a second protection member for reducing an external element entering the inside of the imaging device via a mount portion of the imaging device. A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that when a signal indicating driving of the second protection member is received from the accessory via the communication means, the first protection member is not driven. (Configuration 20) A program, characterized in that the computer executes the imaging device control method according to Method 3 or 4.

[0094] As described above, the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist thereof.

Description of Symbols

[0095] 100 Exchange lens 114 Diaphragm unit (first diaphragm unit) 200 Camera body (imaging device) 300 Accessory 301 Accessory microcomputer (control means) 302 Accessory communication circuit (communication means) 303 Protection member

Claims

1. An accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, comprising: communication means for communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device; a protection member for reducing external elements entering the interior of the imaging device through a mount portion of the imaging device; control means for controlling the protection member, and having: when receiving information regarding power-off from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means drives the protection member so as to reduce the external elements; when receiving information regarding driving of a first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens from the imaging device via the communication means, the control means controls the first aperture unit via the communication means; The control means is characterized in that it controls the first aperture unit differently before and after receiving the information regarding power-off. An accessory.

2. The accessory according to claim 1, wherein the protection member has a light-shielding curtain for shielding incident light which is the external element.

3. The accessory according to claim 1, wherein the protection member has a second aperture unit for shielding incident light which is the external element.

4. The control means: determines whether to drive the protection member so as to reduce the external elements when detecting that the information regarding power-off has been received from the imaging device; when determining to drive the protection member, starts driving the protection member; The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it communicates with the imaging device via the communication means so that power supply from the imaging device is maintained while the protection member is being driven.

5. The control means: before receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, transmits the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit received from the imaging device to the interchangeable lens via the communication means; after receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, does not transmit the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit to the interchangeable lens. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The control means: before receiving the information regarding power-off from the imaging device, transmits the information regarding driving of the first aperture unit received from the imaging device to the interchangeable lens via the communication means; After receiving the information regarding the power-off from the imaging device, the accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is characterized in that it requests the exchange lens to drive the first aperture unit to open via the communication means.

7. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3 further comprises selection means capable of selecting whether to reduce the external elements using the protection member or to reduce the external elements using the first aperture unit of the exchange lens.

8. The control means determines whether it is possible to narrow down the first aperture unit during power-off, and when it is determined that the first aperture unit cannot be narrowed down, even if it is selected by the selection means to reduce the external elements using the first aperture unit, the protection member is controlled to reduce the external elements using the protection member. The accessory according to claim 7 is characterized in that.

9. The information regarding the power-off is transmitted from the imaging device to the accessory and is a request for processing when changing from the power-on state to the power-off state. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is characterized in that.

10. An accessory detachably attached between an exchange lens and an imaging device, comprising communication means for communicating with each of the exchange lens and the imaging device, a protection member for reducing external elements entering the interior of the imaging device via the mount portion of the imaging device, and control means for controlling the protection member, wherein the control means drives the protection member so that the external elements are reduced when receiving a signal regarding a change in the state of the exchange lens via the communication means. The accessory is characterized in that.

11. The accessory according to claim 10 is characterized in that the protection member has a light-shielding curtain for preventing the entry of dust, which is the external element.

12. The accessory according to claim 10 is characterized in that the protection member has a second aperture unit for preventing the entry of dust, which is the external element.

13. The signal regarding the change in the state of the exchange lens is a signal indicating whether the exchange lens is attached to the accessory. The accessory according to any one of claims 10 to 12 is characterized in that.

14. The control means communicates with the imaging device via the communication means so that power supply from the imaging device is maintained from the time when the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens is received until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

15. The control means transmits, via the communication means, a status signal indicating whether the interchangeable lens is attached to the accessory or not to the imaging device. The control means maintains, as the status signal, a signal indicating the state in which the interchangeable lens is attached from the time when the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens is received until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

16. The control means gives a dummy response to a communication request from the imaging device from the time when the signal regarding the change in the state of the interchangeable lens is received until the driving of the protection member is completed. The accessory according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

17. An imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, an imaging element, a first protection member for protecting the imaging element, communication means for communicating with the accessory, control means for controlling the first protection member, and has the accessory has a second protection member for reducing an external element entering the inside of the imaging device via a mount portion of the imaging device, The control means transmits information regarding power-off to the accessory via the communication means, and when the accessory reduces the external element using the second protection member, does not drive the first protection member. An imaging device characterized by this.

18. An imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, an imaging element, a first protection member for protecting the imaging element, communication means for communicating with the accessory, control means for controlling the first protection member, and has the accessory has a second protection member for reducing an external element entering the inside of the imaging device via a mount portion of the imaging device, The control means does not drive the first protection member when a signal indicating that the second protection member is to be driven is received from the accessory via the communication means. An imaging device characterized by this.

19. A method for controlling an accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, comprising: communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device via communication means; controlling a protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through a mount portion of the imaging device; controlling a first aperture unit of the interchangeable lens via the communication means, when information regarding power-off is received from the imaging device via the communication means, driving the protection member so as to reduce the external elements; when information regarding driving of the first aperture unit is received from the imaging device via the communication means, controlling the first aperture unit; A method for controlling an accessory, characterized in that control of the first aperture unit is made different before and after receiving the information regarding power-off.

20. A method for controlling an accessory detachably attached between an interchangeable lens and an imaging device, comprising: communicating with each of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device via communication means; controlling a protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through a mount portion of the imaging device, wherein when a signal regarding a change in the state of the interchangeable lens is received via the communication means, the protection member is driven so as to reduce the external elements.

21. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the method for controlling an accessory according to claim 19 or 20.

22. A method for controlling an imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, comprising: communicating with the accessory via communication means; controlling a first protection member that protects an imaging element, wherein the accessory has a second protection member that reduces external elements entering the imaging device through a mount portion of the imaging device; transmitting information regarding power-off to the accessory via the communication means, and when the accessory reduces the external elements using the second protection member, not driving the first protection member.

23. A method for controlling an imaging device capable of attaching an accessory detachable from an interchangeable lens, comprising: communicating with the accessory via communication means; controlling a first protection member that protects the imaging element; The accessory has a second protection member that reduces external elements entering the inside of the imaging device through a mount portion of the imaging device; A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that when a signal indicating driving of the second protection member is received from the accessory via the communication means, the first protection member is not driven.

24. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method for an imaging device according to claim 22 or 23.

Images