Electronic device and system including the same

Abstract

To provide an electronic device capable of improving convenience.SOLUTION: The electronic device includes: a housing; a movable part rotatable about a rotation axis with respect to the housing; and a holding unit configured to hold the movable part at a predetermined rotation angle, the holding force of the holding unit being variable.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device having a moving part. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, light-emitting devices such as camera strobes that can arbitrarily change the irradiation direction of the light-emitting unit to create an appropriate lighting condition to match the shooting scene have been known as electronic devices having a movable part. Some electronic devices having a movable part have a damper disposed at the connection part of the movable part to add viscous resistance, thereby generating a certain holding force (resistance force) in the movable part. Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which a holding force is applied when the movable part is moved automatically by spring force, and no holding force is applied when the movable part is moved manually. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 09-211719 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the configuration of Patent Document 1 does not allow the resistance force to be changed arbitrarily, which is inconvenient for the user. For example, in shooting scenes where vibrations or impacts occur, the state of the moving parts may change unless the holding force is increased, which may interfere with shooting. Also, when storing the light-emitting device after shooting is finished, it is difficult to store it easily if the holding force is strong.

[0005] The present invention can provide an electronic device that can improve convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An electronic device as one aspect of the present invention has a housing part, a movable part that can rotate around a rotation axis relative to the housing part, and a holding part that holds the movable part at a predetermined rotation angle, and is characterized in that the holding force of the holding part is changeable. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device that can improve convenience. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a light emitting device. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an external appearance of an imaging device. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating the principle of changing the holding force of the light emitting device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a connection state between a light emitting device and an imaging device. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a light emitting process of the light emitting device. [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the force acting on the light-emitting portion and the holding force when acceleration is applied to the light-emitting device. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an operation for automatically changing a holding force when an acceleration is detected. [Figure 11] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the acceleration generated in the light-emitting unit and the holding force to be changed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same components, and redundant explanations will be omitted. (First embodiment) 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a system according to this embodiment. The system includes a light emitting device (electronic device) 100, an image capturing device 200, and a photographing lens 300.

[0010] The light emitting device 100 includes a light emitting unit 101, a housing unit 102 (described later), a light emitting device control unit (changing means) 103, a holding force variable unit (holding unit) 400, a motor 401 that drives the holding force variable unit 400, and a holding force state detection unit 407. The housing unit 102 is made up of a connection unit 102a for communicating with the imaging device 200, a display unit 102b, and an operation unit 102c.

[0011] The imaging device 200 includes a connection unit 200a for communicating with the light-emitting device 100, a display unit 200b, an operation unit 200c, a shutter button 200d, and an imaging device control unit 200g. The imaging device 200 also includes an image recording unit 200e that collects light that has passed through a photographing lens 300a and a shutter 200h (described later), captures the collected image data with an image sensor 200i, and records the captured image data. The imaging device 200 also includes an acceleration detection unit 200f that detects acceleration occurring in the imaging device 200, and a mount contact unit 200j for connection with the photographing lens unit 300. During photography, the respective control units communicate and cooperate to control light intensity adjustment, drive of the photographing lens unit 300, timing of light emission, and the like. The acceleration detection unit 200f may be provided in the light-emitting device 200.

[0012] The photographing lens unit 300 includes a photographing lens 300a and a lens control unit 300b. A drive mechanism within the photographing lens 300a is driven in response to commands from the lens control unit 300b.

[0013] FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the light-emitting device 100. FIGS. 2(a) and 2(b) are views of the light-emitting device 100 as seen from the front and rear, respectively. The light-emitting unit 101 emits flashing light or emits light constantly. The housing 102 incorporates a control circuit and the like for controlling functions of the light-emitting device 100, such as light emission, display, operation, communication, and control of the holding force variable unit 400. The light-emitting unit 101 is a movable unit composed of a first movable unit 101a and a second movable unit 101b, and is held at a predetermined rotation angle by the holding force variable unit 400. By operating either the light-emitting device 100 or the imaging device 200, the first and second movable units 101a and 101b are rotated relative to the housing 102 connected to the imaging device 200, so that the light-emitting unit 101 can be directed at a desired rotation angle relative to the imaging frame of the imaging device 200.

[0014] The first movable unit 101a is configured to be rotatable about 10 degrees in the direction Da and about 110 degrees in the direction Db around a rotation axis D, which is the first rotation axis. The second movable unit 101b is configured to be rotatable about 100 degrees in the direction Ea and about 100 degrees in the direction Eb around a rotation axis E, which is the second rotation axis. With the housing 102 fixed, an operator can rotate the light-emitting unit 101 around the rotation axes D and E to change the direction of the light-emitting unit 101 at a desired rotation angle. At this time, the light-emitting unit 101 is held so that the rotation angle of the light-emitting unit 101 relative to the housing 102 is not easily changed. For example, a friction member is interposed between the holding force variable unit 400 and each movable unit, and the light-emitting unit 101 is held by the frictional force. In this embodiment, the force that holds the rotation angle of the light-emitting unit 101 relative to the housing 102 is defined as the holding force.

[0015] 3 is a perspective view of the appearance of the imaging device 200. Communication is performed by connecting the connection unit 102a of the light-emitting device 100 and the connection unit 200a of the imaging device 200, and various imaging functions can be realized by the light-emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 operating in cooperation with each other. Note that, in addition to the physical connection, if the light-emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 have a wireless communication function (not shown), the same imaging functions can be realized even if the light-emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 are installed apart from each other.

[0016] Next, the holding force variable unit 400 of this embodiment will be described. Figures 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of the holding force variable unit 400. The holding force variable unit 400 is a mechanism that changes the operating forces when the light emitting unit 101 rotates around the rotation axes D and E relative to the housing unit 102, and can change the holding force of the light emitting unit 101.

[0017] The holding force variable part 400 is provided inside the second movable part 101b. The movable part front cover 101c and the movable part rear cover 101d are configured to cover the holding force variable part 400.

[0018] The motor 401 is a drive unit for changing the holding force. Power is transmitted to a first holding force variable unit 405 and a second holding force variable unit 406 via the motor 401, pinion gear 402, and stepped gears 403 and 404. The first holding force variable unit 405 includes a stepped gear 405a connected to the stepped gear 404, a gradient gear 405b, a wave washer 405c, and a fixed shaft 405d. The second holding force variable unit 406 includes a stepped gear 406a connected to the stepped gear 404, a gradient gear 406b, a wave washer 406c, and a fixed plate 406d.

[0019] The motor 401 and a series of gears are engaged with fixed portions (not shown) or supported on a rotating shaft within the movable portion front cover 101c and the movable portion rear cover 101d. The motor 401 is soldered to lead wires or a flexible wiring board (not shown) and is electrically connected to a board or the like mounted on a circuit group that constitutes part of the light emitting device control unit 103 of the light emitting device 100, thereby controlling the rotation direction and rotational force of the motor shaft. The front cover 101d constitutes part of the exterior of the light emitting device 100 and, together with the rear cover (not shown), constitutes the housing unit 102.

[0020] The gradient gear 405b has a high peak portion 405bh and a low peak portion 405bl formed on a circumference centered on the rotation axis D. The high peak portion 405bh and the low peak portion 405bl are gently connected to form an inclined surface. The wave washer 405c has a high peak portion 405ch and a low peak portion 405cl formed on a circumference centered on the rotation axis D. The high peak portion 405ch and the low peak portion 405cl are gently connected. The wave washer 405c also has a notch 405cc. The fixed shaft 405d is fixed integrally to the first movable portion 101a. The fixed plate 406d is fixed integrally to the housing 102. The symbols a to d of the components of the first holding force variable portion 405 also correspond to the components of the second holding force variable portion 406, and therefore, description thereof will be omitted.

[0021] A notched portion 405cc of the wave washer 405c fits into a convex portion (not shown) of the fixed shaft 405d, and the wave washer 405c is fixed so as not to rotate with the rotation of the gradient gear 405b about the rotation axis D. A notched portion 406cc of the wave washer 406c fits into a convex portion (not shown) of the fixed plate 406d, and the wave washer 406c is fixed so as not to rotate with the rotation of the gradient gear 406b about the rotation axis E.

[0022] Rotational power is transmitted to the first and second holding force variable parts 405 and 406 by the motor 401 and a series of gears, whereby the holding force of the first and second movable parts 101 and 101b around the rotation axes D and E changes.

[0023] In this embodiment, when an operator operates the operation unit 102c of the light emitting device 100 or the operation unit 200c of the image capturing device 200 in a predetermined manner, the light emitting device control unit 103 rotates the first and second holding force variable units 405, 406. In addition, the respective holding forces can be changed.

[0024] Specifically, when an operation for changing the holding force is performed using an assigned operating member among the multiple operating members included in operating unit 102c, the signal is input to light-emitting device control unit 103, which calculates the holding force corresponding to the input signal. A drive signal required for the holding force is then output from light-emitting device control unit 103 and input to motor 401 to drive holding force variable unit 400, thereby changing the holding force. Furthermore, holding force state detection unit 407 detects the amount of rotation of the output shaft of motor 401, the amount of rotation of gradient gear 405b, etc., and the detection signal is input to light-emitting device control unit 103, which calculates and stores the current state of holding force.

[0025] The configuration that generates a holding force when the light emitting device 100 is rotated around the rotation axis D by the first holding force variable unit 405 is defined as a first holding unit. Also, the configuration that generates a holding force when the light emitting device 100 is rotated around the rotation axis E by the second holding force variable unit 406 is defined as a second holding unit.

[0026] Next, a description will be given of a holding force changing operation in the above-described mechanical configuration and system configuration. When an operator changes the light-emitting direction of the light-emitting unit 101, the operating force may not be the desired operating force. In such cases, the operator can select from multiple levels of holding force (e.g., levels obtained by dividing the range from the minimum to the maximum holding force into three to five levels) displayed on the display unit 102b of the light-emitting device 100 or the display unit 200b of the imaging device 200 by the above-described operation. When the operator selects a predetermined level of holding force, a control signal from the light-emitting device control unit 103 causes the motor 401 to rotate by an amount of rotation corresponding to the set level. Then, the respective stepped gears 403 and 404 connected to the pinion gear 402 and the respective components of the corresponding rotation axes D and E and the first and second holding force adjusting units 405 and 406 rotate by the predetermined amount in conjunction with each other.

[0027] Next, the principle of how the holding force changes when gradient gears 405b, 406b rotate by a predetermined amount will be described. Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the principle of how the holding force of light emitting device 100 is changed, and is an enlarged schematic diagram of the main part of first holding force variable part 405 that rotates around rotation axis D.

[0028] The beveled gear 405b, together with the wave washer 405c, is disposed between the surface of the fixed shaft 405d and the surface of the sliding part 101e, which is integral with the light-emitting part 101. The beveled gear 405b has a circumferentially inclined surface formed by high and low peaks 405bh and 405bl, which contact the high peaks 405ch of the wave washer 405c. The low peaks 405cl of the wave washer 405c contact the surface of the fixed shaft 405d. The beveled gear 405b has a surface opposite the inclined surface, which is provided with convex contact portions 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc (405bc is not shown) spaced equally apart on the circumference. The contact portions 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc contact the surface of the sliding part 101e. The gradient gear 405b and the wave washer 405c are sandwiched between the surface of the fixed shaft 405d and the surface of the sliding part 101e, and the wave washer 405c is stored in a deflected state. As a result, forces (Fa, Fb, and Fc, not shown) act on the contact parts 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc to press the surface of the sliding part 101e toward the rotation axis D. Then, frictional forces perpendicular to the forces Fa, Fb, and Fc act at the contact parts between the contact parts 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc and the sliding part 101e. The magnitude of the frictional forces per contact point is μFa, μFb, and μFc, where μ is the friction coefficient of the contact part. This frictional force serves as a holding force when the first movable part 101a rotates around the rotation axis D.

[0029] Here, in the state shown in FIG. 6(a), the gradient gear 405b rotates, and the high peak portion 405ch of the wave washer 405c comes into contact with the midpoint of the inclined surface formed by the high peak portion 405bh and the low peak portion 405bl, and the gear is stopped. In this state, the force with which the abutment portions 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc press the surface of the sliding portion 101e toward the rotation axis D is a force Fa per contact point. On the other hand, in the state shown in FIG. 6(b), the gradient gear 405b rotates, and the high peak portion 405ch of the wave washer 405c comes into contact with the high peak portion 405bh of the inclined surface, and the gear is stopped. In this state, compared to FIG. 6(a), the wave washer 405c is deformed so as to be compressed toward the rotation axis D, and its elastic force increases. Due to this elastic force, the force Fb with which the contact portions 405ba, 405bb, and 405bc press the surface of the sliding portion 101e in the direction of the rotation axis D is greater than the force Fa. Therefore, the holding force is greater in the state of FIG. 6(b) than in the state of FIG. 6(a).

[0030] In this way, by rotating the gradient gear 405b, the contact position between the inclined surface of the gradient gear 405b and the high crest portion 405ch of the wave washer 405c changes, increasing or decreasing the elastic force of the wave washer 405c. This makes it possible to change the holding force about the rotation axis D. Also, in the second holding force variable unit 406 around the rotation axis E, the surface of the fixed shaft 405d is simply replaced with a fixed plate 406d, and the principle of holding force generation is the same.

[0031] As described above, by controlling the driving of motor 401 through the operator's operation, holding force variable unit 400 works in conjunction with the motor, making it possible to change the holding force of light-emitting unit 101 of light-emitting device 100. This allows the operator to obtain the holding force he or she desires, improving operability.

[0032] In this embodiment, the first and second holding force variable units 405, 406 are driven simultaneously using a common drive unit, but the same effect can be obtained by providing different drive units for each holding force variable unit and driving them independently (separately). With this configuration, it is also possible to change the holding force around the rotation axes D and E, making it possible to set the holding force more in line with the operator's needs.

[0033] In addition, in this embodiment, the holding force is changed by driving holding force variable unit 400 using a drive unit such as a motor, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by having an operating member (not shown) to which gradient gears 405b, 406b are connected so as to be rotatable, protrude from the exterior of light-emitting device 100 and function as a drive unit that can be manually operated by an operator, it becomes possible to change the holding force by manual operation.

[0034] Next, a configuration for changing the holding force depending on the state of the light emitting device 100 or the state of the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 will be described.

[0035] First, a description will be given of the mechanical configuration of the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing the connection state between the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200.

[0036] 7(a) shows a state in which the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 are connected. The imaging device 200 is connected to the light emitting device 100 and the photographing lens 300. The light emitting direction N of the light emitting device 100 is approximately parallel to the direction of the optical axis L of the photographing lens 300. In this embodiment, the photographing lens 300 is connected to the imaging device 200, but it may also be built into the imaging device 200 or configured to be replaceable.

[0037] 7(b) shows a state in which the light emitting device 100 is separated and independent from the imaging device 200. The state in Fig. 7(b) is a state assumed when, for example, using multiple light emitting devices 100 to illuminate a subject, the multiple light emitting devices 100 are installed at positions away from the imaging device 200 and light is emitted using wireless communication between the imaging device 200 and the light emitting devices 100. In this state, an installation base 104 for stabilizing the attitude of the light emitting device 100 is connected to the connection portion 102a of the housing portion 102.

[0038] Next, the light emitting process of the light emitting device 100 will be described. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the light emitting process of the light emitting device 100. The light emitting process is executed by the light emitting device control unit 103 reading out a program stored in ROM. When the power is turned on by the operation unit 102c of the light emitting device 100 and the light emitting device control unit 103 becomes operable, the light emitting process starts.

[0039] In step S801, the light-emitting device control unit 103 initializes its own memory and ports. The light-emitting device control unit 103 also acquires the state of the switches included in the operation unit 102c and preset input information. If the previous setting retention, first setting retention, and second setting retention are stored, the light-emitting device control unit 103 acquires the respective values. The setting retention, first setting retention, and second setting retention will be described later.

[0040] In step S802, the light-emitting device control unit 103 acquires the setting value (set retention force) of the retention force for each step (for example, the range from the minimum to maximum value of the retention force divided into 3 to 5 steps) selected by the operator via the operation unit 102c or 200c. The light-emitting device control unit 103 also acquires the first and second set retention forces. Like the set retention force, the first and second set retention forces are retention forces that can be set in each step. Note that if the previous set retention force, the first set retention force, and the second set retention force have been acquired in step S801, the processing of this step may be omitted.

[0041] In step S803, the light emitting device control unit 103 acquires the current holding force detected by the holding force state detection unit 407.

[0042] In step S804, the light-emitting device control unit 103 acquires the first and second designed holding forces stored in advance in the ROM. The first designed holding force is a holding force necessary to prevent the light-emitting unit 101 from easily rotating in response to accelerations that the light-emitting device 100 experiences due to vibrations, shocks, and the like that may be anticipated at the time of design, which may occur during use of the light-emitting device 100. The second designed holding force is a holding force that allows the light-emitting unit 101 to be easily rotated and is deemed to be easy to operate for operators anticipated at the time of design. The first and second designed holding forces are determined at the design stage of the light-emitting device 100, and in this embodiment, the first designed holding force is set higher than the second designed holding force. Note that each designed holding force is included in a range of holding forces selectable in stages on the display unit 102b or the display unit 200b.

[0043] In step S805, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether communication is possible between the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that communication is possible between the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200, it executes processing in step S806, and if it determines that communication is not possible, it executes processing in step S808.

[0044] In step S806, the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines whether the current holding power acquired in step S803 matches the set holding power acquired in step S802. If the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines that they match, it executes the process of step S810, and if it determines that they do not match, it executes the process of step S807.

[0045] In step S807, the light-emitting device control unit 103 instructs the motor 401 to rotate by a predetermined amount so that the current holding force becomes the set holding force acquired in step S802. Note that feedback control may be used while the rotation of the motor 401 is controlled to reach the predetermined amount.

[0046] In step S808, the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines whether the current holding force acquired in step S803 is higher than the second designed holding force acquired in step S804. If the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines that the current holding force is higher than the second designed holding force, it executes the process of step S809, and if it determines that the current holding force is not higher than the second designed holding force, it executes the process of step S810.

[0047] In step S809, the light-emitting device control unit 103 instructs the motor 401 to rotate a predetermined amount so that the current holding force becomes the first set holding force (second holding force) acquired in step S801 or step S802. Here, the first set holding force is a holding force that is set to be equal to or less than the second designed holding force. If the first set holding force is not set by the operator, it may be set to be equal to or less than the second designed holding force.

[0048] In step S810, the light emitting device control unit 103 stores the current holding power in the ROM.

[0049] In step S811, the light emitting device control unit 103 displays the current holding power on the display unit 102b or the display unit 200b based on the current holding power stored in step S810.

[0050] In step S812, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether or not a signal (operation start signal) indicating a light emission preparation state (an intermediate operation of the shutter button, so-called half-pressing) has been received from the imaging device control unit 200g. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that a signal indicating a light emission preparation state has been received, it executes the process of step S813, and if it determines that a signal indicating a light emission preparation state has not been received, it executes the process of step S805. The light emission preparation state is a state in which a driving operation for focusing controlled by the lens control unit 300b and a pre-light emission operation for dimming controlled by the light emitting device control unit 103 are performed before image capture.

[0051] In step S813, the light-emitting device control unit 103 instructs the motor 401 to rotate a predetermined amount so that the current holding force becomes the second set holding force (first holding force) acquired in step S801 or step S802. Here, the second set holding force is a holding force that is set to be equal to or greater than the first designed holding force. If the second set holding force has not been set by the operator, it may be set to a value equal to or greater than the first designed holding force.

[0052] In step S814, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether or not it has received a light emission start signal indicating a light emission instruction from the imaging device control unit 200g. If it has determined that it has received the light emission start signal, it executes the process of step S815; if it has determined that it has not received the light emission start signal, it executes the process of step S805.

[0053] In step S815, the light emitting device control unit 103 emits light in response to the light emission start signal. The light emitting device control unit 103 causes a discharge tube (not shown) included in the light emitting unit 101 to emit light in accordance with the light emission instruction.

[0054] In step S816, the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since light emission. If the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, it executes the process of step S802. If the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it executes the process of step S812. Note that the predetermined time may be any time predetermined by the light-emitting device 100, and is the time for determining whether the light-emitting operation and the photographing operation are being repeated after the light emission associated with photographing in step S815.

[0055] In the light emission processing flowchart, by determining whether the light emitting device 100 can communicate with the imaging device 200, it is possible to estimate whether the light emitting device 100 is being used for image capture. If it is estimated in step S805 that the light emitting device 100 is not being used for image capture, it is possible to estimate, for example, that the light emitting device 100 is in the image capture preparation stage before communicating with the imaging device 200, or that the light emitting device 100 is about to be stored after image capture has ended. That is, in steps S805, S808, and S809, the holding force is automatically set to the first set holding force, which is equal to or less than the second design holding force. This improves operability when the operator rotates the light emitting unit 101 to a desired rotation angle during image capture preparation. Furthermore, when storing the light emitting device 100 after image capture has ended, it is possible to improve operability when the operator rotates the light emitting unit 101 from the desired rotation angle during image capture to the angle required for storage.

[0056] Furthermore, if the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 are communicating in step S805, it can be assumed that the light emitting device 100 will be used for image capture. That is, in steps S805, S806, and S807, the holding force of the light emitting device 100 is set to the set holding force selected by the operator in step S802. This allows the operator to achieve the desired operating force when fine-tuning the light emitting unit 101 to a desired rotation angle during image capture.

[0057] Furthermore, if the light-emitting device 100 receives a signal indicating a light-emission preparation state from the imaging device 200 in step S812, it can be assumed that the imaging device 200 is about to capture an image and that the light-emitting device 100 is about to issue a light-emission command. Therefore, in step S813, the holding force of the light-emitting device 100 is automatically set to a second set holding force equal to or greater than the first design holding force. This prevents the operator from accidentally changing the angle from the desired rotation angle just before or during image capture. An accidental change in angle refers to a simple change in the rotation angle of the light-emitting unit 101 unintentionally caused by vibration or impact transmitted to the light-emitting device 100. Maintaining the second set holding force from the light-emission preparation state in steps S812 through S815 until the light-emission operation is completed can prevent accidental changes in angle during image capture. Furthermore, if a light-emission command is not issued in step S814 or if a predetermined time has passed since the light emission in step S815, it can be assumed that the state has changed from the light-emission preparation state to the image-emission preparation state. Therefore, the process returns to step S805 so as not to hinder the operator from adjusting and changing the rotation angle of the light-emitting unit 101 to a desired angle.

[0058] In this embodiment, the light emitting device 100 automatically changes the holding force for rotating the light emitting device 100 depending on the communication state between the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 and the content of communication related to the light emitting operation. This improves operability for the operator while preventing the light emitting device 100 from accidentally rotating during image capture. Note that the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 do not need to be physically connected by their respective connecting parts. For example, the above-described effects can be obtained even when the light emitting device 100 is held at a location away from the imaging device 200 and image capture is performed via wireless communication or the like. Furthermore, the same applies when the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 are physically connected via other connecting devices and are capable of communicating with each other.

[0059] In this embodiment, the operator can set three types of holding force: a set holding force, a first set holding force, and a second set holding force. However, three or more holding forces may be set using a similar procedure. For example, after changing the set holding force to a second set holding force, which is higher than the first design holding force, in step S813, the holding force may be changed to an even higher holding force only from the start to the end of light emission in step S815. This allows the operator to perform rotational operation at the second set holding force while shooting while making fine adjustments to the rotational operation of the light-emitting unit 101 from step S812 onward, while temporarily changing the holding force to a higher holding force only during the light-emitting operation in step S815. As a result, it is possible to prevent inadvertent rotation of the light-emitting unit 101 at the moment of shooting.

[0060] Furthermore, the holding force desired by the operator may be the set holding force only, in which case it is possible to set the operation unit 102c of the light emitting device 100 so that the operation of changing to the first and second set holding forces is not performed.

[0061] As described above, the operator can preset the rotational operating force of the light-emitting unit 101 for each of the usage states of the light-emitting device 100, such as a state where the light-emitting device 100 is not communicating with the imaging device, a state where the light-emitting device is communicating, and a state where the light is ready to be emitted. This allows the operator to reproduce the desired holding force for each of the usage states. As a result, it is possible to provide the light-emitting device 100 that achieves more optimal shooting conditions and more comfortable operability without the operator having to make any special effort. (Second embodiment) In this embodiment, an acceleration detection unit 200f is provided in the light emitting device 100 or an imaging device 200 connected to the light emitting device 100, and a light emitting device 100 is described in which the holding force of the light emitting device 100 can be changed by a holding force variable unit 400 using the acceleration detection result. In this embodiment, only configurations different from the first embodiment will be described, and descriptions of configurations that are the same as those in the first embodiment will be omitted. Furthermore, the same reference numbers will be used for the same members as in the first embodiment, and duplicate descriptions will be omitted.

[0062] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the relationship between the force acting on light-emitting section 101 and the holding force when acceleration occurs in light-emitting device 100. In FIG.

[0063] First, the relationship between the acceleration occurring in the light-emitting unit 101 and the holding force set by the holding force variable unit 400 will be explained. 9(a) shows a state in which the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 are connected. The imaging device 200 is in a horizontal position, and gravitational acceleration is acting downward in the figure. When acceleration α (in substantially the same direction as the gravitational acceleration) acts on the light emitting device 100 and the imaging device 200 in this state, a force F1 expressed by the following equation (1) is generated at the center of gravity P of the light emitting unit 101 having mass M.

[0064] F1=M×α (1) Here, the holding force of the first movable part 101a around the rotation axis D by the holding force variable part 400 is defined as F2. Furthermore, the distances from the rotation center of the first movable part 101a to the positions where the forces F1 and F2 are generated are defined as L1 and L2, respectively (the positions where the holding forces are generated are indicated by Q). In this case, when the light-emitting part 101 is subjected to acceleration α, the relationship of the forces required to prevent the light-emitting part 101 from rotating around the rotation axis D is expressed by the following equation (2).

[0065] F1×L1 <F2×L2 (2) The acceleration αt at which the light emitting unit 101 starts to rotate is expressed by the following equation (3).

[0066] αt=(F2×L2) / (M×L1) (3) The acceleration αt changes in response to a change in the holding force F2, which can be set by the operator of the light emitting device 100.

[0067] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation when the holding force is automatically changed by the holding force variable section 400 upon detecting acceleration. This flow starts when the light emitting device 100 is powered on.

[0068] In step S1001, the light emitting device control unit 103 acquires the current holding force set by the operator.

[0069] In step S1002, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether the power of the imaging device 200 is turned on. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that the power of the imaging device 200 is turned on, it executes the process of step S1003, and if it determines that the power of the imaging device 200 is not turned on, it executes the process of this step again.

[0070] In step S1003, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether or not a signal indicating a shooting preparation state has been received from the imaging device control unit 200g. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that a signal indicating a shooting preparation state has been received, it executes the process of step S1004; if it determines that a signal indicating a shooting preparation state has not been received, it executes the process of this step again.

[0071] In step S1004, the light emitting device control unit 103 acquires the acceleration detected by the acceleration detection unit 200f. In this embodiment, the acceleration detection unit 200f, and the light emitting device control unit 103 or the imaging device control unit 200g constitute an acceleration detection means.

[0072] In step S1005, the light-emitting device control unit 103 determines whether the acceleration acquired in step S1004 is within a threshold value (first acceleration). Here, the threshold value is calculated by the light-emitting device control unit 103 or the imaging device control unit 200g based on equation (3) and is a boundary value for determining whether the light-emitting unit 101 can maintain the light-emitting direction N against the acceleration αt generated in the light-emitting unit 101. When the operator sets the holding force in stages, the holding force of the light-emitting unit 101 is determined, and the threshold for determining whether the light-emitting unit 101 can maintain the light-emitting direction N is determined by equations (1) to (3). Furthermore, among the acceleration αt in equation (3), the acceleration that the light-emitting unit 101 receives due to vibrations, shocks, and the like that can be anticipated at the time of design is referred to as the design threshold value. In other words, when acceleration exceeding the design threshold occurs in the light-emitting unit 101, a force is generated around the rotation axis D that exceeds the holding force of the first movable unit 101a based on the calculations of equations (1) to (3), and the light-emitting unit 101 rotates. If the light emitting device control section 103 determines that the acceleration is within the threshold value, it executes the process of step S1008, and if it determines that the acceleration is not within the threshold value, it executes the process of step S1006.

[0073] If it is determined in step S1005 that the acceleration exceeds the threshold, the light-emitting unit 101 cannot maintain the light-emitting direction N against the acceleration occurring in the light-emitting unit 101, and therefore the light-emitting direction N has deviated from the direction set by the operator. In step S1006, the light-emitting device control unit 103 lights up a warning display on the display unit 102b of the light-emitting device 100 to prompt the operator to correct the deviation in the position of the light-emitting unit 101.

[0074] In step S1007, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether the acceleration acquired in step S1004 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Here, the predetermined value (second acceleration) is an acceleration that is lower than the threshold value described above and that allows the light emitting unit 101 to maintain the light emitting direction N, and is a value that is set and stored in advance in the light emitting device 100. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that the acceleration is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, it executes the process of step S1008, and if it determines that the acceleration is not equal to or greater than the predetermined value, it executes the process of step S1009.

[0075] In step S1008, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that there is a risk that the light emitting unit 101 will rotate if a larger acceleration occurs, and changes the holding force to a "high" state in accordance with the acceleration.

[0076] In step S1009, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether or not a signal indicating the start of shooting has been received from the imaging device control unit 200g. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that an operation for shooting has been performed, it executes the process of step S1010; if it determines that an operation for shooting has not been performed, it executes the process of step S1003.

[0077] In step S1010, the light emitting device control unit 103 emits light.

[0078] In step S1011, the light emitting device control unit 103 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since light emission. If the light emitting device control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed, it executes the process of step S1012, and if it determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it executes the process of this step again.

[0079] In step S1012, the light emitting device control unit 103 changes the holding force to the holding force set by the operator.

[0080] Here, the relationship between the predetermined value and the threshold value will be explained. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the acceleration generated in the light-emitting unit 101 and the changing holding force. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents acceleration. Also, Pa1 to Pa3 on the vertical axis represent predetermined values ​​(second accelerations) at each stage, and a1 to a3 represent threshold values ​​(first accelerations) at each stage. Fig. 11 shows three stages of acceleration magnitude. Note that threshold value a3 is the acceleration at which the light-emitting unit 101 starts to rotate when the holding force is the maximum that the operator can set in the light-emitting device 100.

[0081] Here, if acceleration 1100a is detected at time t1, which is greater than or equal to a predetermined value Pa1 and less than or equal to a threshold a1, it is determined that the limit of the holding force capable of holding the light-emitting unit 101 is approaching, and the holding force is increased to a2. This allows the holding force to be increased before the threshold a1 is exceeded, creating a margin of holding force for the acceleration. If acceleration 1100b is detected at time t2, which is greater than or equal to a predetermined value Pa2 and less than or equal to a2, it is determined that the limit of the holding force capable of holding the light-emitting unit 101 is approaching, and the holding force is increased further to a3. This allows the holding force to be increased before the threshold a2 is exceeded, creating a margin of holding force for the acceleration. If acceleration 1100c is detected at time t3, it is determined that the light-emitting unit 101 has begun to rotate when the light-emitting device 100 is at its maximum holding force, and a warning is displayed.

[0082] The number of stages of the change in holding force according to the acceleration is not limited to three, but may be two or more than three.

[0083] Furthermore, although the holding force has been described as being changed to a "high" side as the acceleration increases, in principle it is also possible to change the holding force to a "low" side as the acceleration decreases. In this case, the holding force may be shifted to a "low" level when the acceleration falls below a predetermined value (corresponding to predetermined values ​​Pa1 to Pa3 in FIG. 11). In step S1007, if the acceleration is lower than the predetermined value, the light-emitting unit 101 is in a state where it can maintain the light-emitting direction N against the acceleration occurring in the light-emitting unit 101, and therefore no operation is performed by the holding force variable unit 400.

[0084] Figure 9(b) is a diagram showing the state when the imaging device 200 is in a vertical position (a position rotated 90° around the optical axis L relative to Figure 9(a)), and Figure 9(c) is a diagram of the imaging device 200 in the position of Figure 9(b) viewed from the right side.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9(c), when acceleration β occurs in light-emitting unit 101, force F3 expressed by the following equation (4) occurs at center of gravity P of light-emitting unit 101 having mass M.

[0086] F3=M×β (4) Here, the holding force of the second movable part 101b around the rotation axis E by the holding force variable part 400 is defined as F4. Furthermore, the distances from the rotation center of the second movable part 101b to the positions where the forces F3 and F4 are generated are defined as L3 and L4, respectively (the holding force generation position is S). In this case, when the light-emitting part 101 is subjected to acceleration β, the relationship of the forces required to prevent the light-emitting part 101 from rotating around the rotation axis E is expressed by the following equation (5).

[0087] F3×L3 <F4×L4 (5) The acceleration βt at which the light emitting unit 101 starts to rotate is expressed by the following equation (6).

[0088] βt=F4×L4 / M×L3 (6) The operation sequence in this state is the same as that in the flowchart of FIG.

[0089] In this embodiment, the two postures of the image capturing device 200, that is, the horizontal posture and the vertical posture, have been described, but the same effect can be obtained by operating in the same order in other postures, for example, a posture rotated 45° around the imaging optical axis. In this case, the first holding force variable unit 405 around the rotation axis D and the second holding force variable unit 406 around the rotation axis E are operated together. This makes it possible to obtain the same effect in the same order in any posture of the image capturing device 200.

[0090] Furthermore, when using light emitting device 100 alone, if light emitting device 100 has built-in acceleration detection means, the same effect can be obtained by changing the holding force in a similar manner according to the detected acceleration.

[0091] As described above, according to the configuration of this embodiment, by changing the holding force in accordance with the detected acceleration, it is possible to prevent the light-emitting unit 101 from moving against the operator's will due to vibration, impact, etc. As a result, even if the operator arbitrarily sets the holding force, the light-emitting direction N of the light-emitting unit 101 operated by the operator will not change against the operator's will, and shooting can be performed in a good shooting state.

[0092] Furthermore, if excessive acceleration is detected and exceeds the tolerance of the light emitting device 100, a warning is displayed to notify the operator that there may be a positional deviation of the light emitting unit 101. As a result, even if the positional deviation of the light emitting unit 101 occurs against the operator's intention, the operator can correct the positional deviation and take an image in good shooting conditions.

[0093] During shooting, the imaging device 200 changes its orientation, such as the horizontal orientation shown in FIG. 9A and the vertical orientation shown in FIG. 9B. As described above, the first movable part 101a can rotate about the rotation axis D by approximately 10 degrees in the direction Da and approximately 110 degrees in the direction Db. The second movable part 101b can rotate about the rotation axis E by approximately 100 degrees in the direction Ea and approximately 100 degrees in the direction Eb. Therefore, the influence of gravitational acceleration on the light-emitting unit 101 varies depending on the orientation of not only the imaging device 200 but also the light-emitting device 100. Therefore, an orientation detection unit may be provided in the control circuit of the housing 102 to detect the direction of gravity acting on the light-emitting unit 101 depending on the orientation of the light-emitting device 100, and further detect the angular positions of the housing 102 and the light-emitting unit 101 around their respective rotation axes. This makes it possible to obtain information on the direction of gravity acting on the light-emitting unit 101, identify the direction in which the gravitational acceleration affects the rotation of the housing unit 102 and the light-emitting unit 101 around each rotation axis, and change the holding force around each rotation axis as needed.

[0094] Specifically, by detecting the direction of the force F1 acting on the light-emitting unit 101 in the direction of gravity in the orientation shown in FIG. 9A, it becomes possible to determine that the rotational direction of the light-emitting unit 101 around the rotational axis D is affected by the gravitational acceleration described above, but that the rotational direction around the rotational axis E is not affected by the gravitational acceleration. In this case, it is possible to increase the gripping force of the first gripping force variable unit 405, which is affected by the gravitational acceleration according to the direction of gravity of the light-emitting unit 101, and not change the gripping force of the second gripping force variable unit 406, which is not affected by the gravitational acceleration. This reduces the number of times that each gripping force needs to be changed, and prevents the operating force from becoming heavier than desired by the operator when the operator operates the device, thereby preventing unnecessary deterioration in operability. Furthermore, when each orientation is identified based on information about the orientation of the image capture device 200 and the orientation of the light-emitting device 100, and the gripping force around each rotational axis is changed in response to these changes, it is possible to determine whether the gripping force is greater than the predetermined value or threshold value at each stage and change the gripping force accordingly. Furthermore, without making this determination, the holding force may be changed to a predetermined, fixed strengthening direction according to each posture, regardless of whether acceleration due to vibration, impact, etc. occurs. In this way, the same effect as described above can be obtained. In particular, for operators who set the holding force to the "weak" side during normal use, the holding state of the light-emitting unit is more susceptible to the influence of gravitational acceleration, so it is effective to strengthen the holding force according to differences in posture.

[0095] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration. (Configuration 1) A housing part; a movable part that is rotatable around a rotation axis relative to the housing part; a holding portion that holds the movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle, The electronic device is characterized in that the holding force of the holding portion is changeable. (Configuration 2) the movable portion includes a first movable portion rotatable about a first rotation axis relative to the housing portion, and a second movable portion rotatable about a second rotation axis different from the first rotation axis, the holding portion includes a first holding portion that holds the first movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle, and a second holding portion that holds the second movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle, 2. The electronic device according to configuration 1, wherein the holding force of the first and second holding parts is changeable. (Configuration 3) The electronic device according to configuration 2, wherein the driving unit used to change the holding force of the first and second holding means is the same. (Configuration 4) 3. The electronic device according to configuration 2, wherein different driving units are used to change the holding forces of the first and second holding means. (Configuration 5) 5. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the holding forces of the first and second holding means can be changed simultaneously or separately. (Configuration 6) 6. The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the drive unit used to change the holding force is a manually operable operating member. (Configuration 7) a drive unit used to change the holding force; 7. The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, further comprising: a change unit that controls the drive unit to change the holding force. (Configuration 8) The electronic device described in configuration 7, characterized in that the change means changes the holding force in response to operation of an operation unit provided on at least one of the electronic device and another electronic device electrically connected to the electronic device. (Configuration 9) 9. The electronic device according to configuration 7 or 8, wherein the change means changes the holding force depending on the state of the electronic device. (Configuration 10) the changer is capable of changing the holding force between a first holding force and a second holding force smaller than the first holding force, The electronic device described in any one of configurations 7 to 9, characterized in that when the electronic device receives an operation start signal from the other electronic device, the change means changes the holding force to the first holding force. (Configuration 11) the electronic device is a light-emitting device, the other electronic device is an imaging device, 11. The electronic device according to configuration 10, wherein the operation start signal is a signal indicating a shooting preparation state. (Configuration 12) the changer is capable of changing the holding force between a first holding force and a second holding force smaller than the first holding force, The electronic device described in any one of configurations 7 to 11, characterized in that when the electronic device is not in a state capable of communicating with other electronic devices and the holding force is equal to or greater than a design holding force previously set in the electronic device, the change means changes the holding force to the second holding force. (Configuration 13) An electronic device described in any one of configurations 7 to 12, characterized in that when the acceleration of at least one of the electronic device and another electronic device that can communicate with the electronic device is less than a first acceleration and greater than a second acceleration that is smaller than the first acceleration, the change means increases the holding force. (Configuration 14) The electronic device according to configuration 13, characterized in that when the acceleration is higher than the first acceleration, the change means displays a warning on a display means provided in at least one of the electronic device and the other electronic device. (Configuration 15) 15. The electronic device according to configuration 13 or 14, wherein the first acceleration is set based on the holding force. (Configuration 16) an attitude detection unit capable of detecting the attitude of the housing unit; an angle detection unit that detects a rotation angle of the movable unit, 16. The electronic device according to any one of configurations 7 to 15, wherein the change unit changes the holding force in accordance with the detection results of the attitude detection unit and the angle detection unit. (Configuration 17) further comprising a calculation means for calculating a direction of gravity acting on the movable part based on the detection results of the attitude detection unit and the angle detection unit, The electronic device described in configuration 16, wherein the change means changes the holding force in accordance with the rotational direction component when the gravity direction component calculated by the calculation means acts on the rotational direction component of the movable part. (Configuration 18) An electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 17; and another electronic device capable of communicating with the electronic device. (Configuration 19) 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the electronic device is a light-emitting device. (Configuration 20) 20. The system according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the electronic device is an imaging device.

[0096] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 100 Light-emitting devices (electronic devices) 101 Light-emitting part (movable part) 102 Housing 400 Variable holding force part (holding part)

Claims

1. A housing part; a movable part that is rotatable around a rotation axis relative to the housing part; a holding portion that holds the movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle, The electronic device is characterized in that the holding force of the holding portion is changeable.

2. the movable portion includes a first movable portion rotatable about a first rotation axis relative to the housing portion, and a second movable portion rotatable about a second rotation axis different from the first rotation axis, the holding portion includes a first holding portion that holds the first movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle and a second holding portion that holds the second movable portion at a predetermined rotation angle, 2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the holding force of the first and second holding portions is variable.

3. 3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the same driving unit is used to change the holding force of the first and second holding units.

4. 3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein different driving units are used to change the holding forces of the first and second holding units.

5. 5. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the holding forces of the first and second holding portions can be changed simultaneously or separately.

6. 5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the driving unit used to change the holding force is a manually operable operating member.

7. a drive unit used to change the holding force; 5. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: a change unit that controls the drive unit to change the holding force.

8. 8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the change unit changes the holding force in response to an operation of an operation unit provided on at least one of the electronic device and another electronic device capable of communicating with the electronic device.

9. 8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the change unit changes the holding force depending on the state of the electronic device.

10. the changer is capable of changing the holding force between a first holding force and a second holding force smaller than the first holding force, 8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the change unit changes the holding force to the first holding force when the electronic device receives an operation start signal from another electronic device that can communicate with the electronic device.

11. the electronic device is a light-emitting device, the other electronic device is an imaging device, 11. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein the operation start signal is a signal indicating a shooting preparation state.

12. the changer is capable of changing the holding force between a first holding force and a second holding force smaller than the first holding force, The electronic device described in claim 7, characterized in that when the electronic device is not in a state where it can communicate with other electronic devices and the holding force is equal to or greater than a design holding force previously set for the electronic device, the change means changes the holding force to the second holding force.

13. The electronic device described in claim 7, characterized in that the change means increases the holding force when the acceleration of at least one of the electronic device and another electronic device that can communicate with the electronic device is less than a first acceleration and greater than a second acceleration that is smaller than the first acceleration.

14. 14. The electronic device according to claim 13, wherein, when the acceleration is higher than the first acceleration, the change unit displays a warning on a display unit provided in at least one of the electronic device and the other electronic device.

15. The electronic device according to claim 13 , wherein the first acceleration is set based on the holding force.

16. an attitude detection unit capable of detecting the attitude of the housing unit; an angle detection unit that detects a rotation angle of the movable unit, 8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein the change unit changes the holding force in accordance with the detection results of the attitude detection unit and the angle detection unit.

17. further comprising a calculation means for calculating a direction of gravity acting on the movable part based on the detection results of the attitude detection unit and the angle detection unit, 17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein, when the gravity direction component calculated by the calculation means acts on a rotation direction component of the movable part, the change means changes the holding force in accordance with the rotation direction component.

18. An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4; and another electronic device capable of communicating with the electronic device.

19. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the electronic device is a light emitting device.

20. 20. The system of claim 18, wherein the electronic device is an imaging device.

Images