Electronic equipment, cooling device, imaging system, control method for electronic equipment and cooling device, and program

Abstract

To provide user-friendly electronic devices. [Solution] An electronic device (100) to which a cooling device (200) can be attached and detached, comprising: a receiving means (1331) that receives first information regarding the amount of refrigerant stored in the cooling device by communication with the cooling device; an acquiring means (1332) that acquires second information regarding the operating time of the electronic device using the first information; and a display control means (1333) that displays the second information on a display unit (101).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, a cooling device, an imaging system, a control method for an electronic device and a cooling device, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, due to heat generation of electronic components inside the camera body, the camera body becomes hot, and when the upper limit of the guaranteed temperature of the electronic components is reached, recording such as a video may stop. Patent Document 1 discloses a cooling device that cools an imaging element of a camera body by being attached to the bottom surface of the camera body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, even when using the cooling device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the user cannot grasp the operable time of the camera body according to the effect of the cooling device, so it is not user-friendly for the user.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device that is user-friendly for the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic device to which a cooling device is detachable, and includes: a receiving unit that receives, by communication with the cooling device, first information regarding a refrigerant filling amount stored in the cooling device; an acquisition unit that acquires second information regarding an operable time of the electronic device using the first information; and a display control unit that causes a display unit to display the second information.

[0007] Other objects and features of the present invention are described in the following embodiments. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic device that is easy for the user to use. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1(a)] This is an external view (front perspective view) of the camera body in the first embodiment. [Figure 1(b)] This is an external view (rear perspective view) of the camera body in the first embodiment. [Figure 1(c)] This is a cross-sectional view of the camera body in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] These are external views and cross-sectional views of the cooling device in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the imaging system in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram of the imaging system in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart showing the prediction process for the shooting time in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a table used for predicting the time available for shooting in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the cooling device in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the prediction process for the shooting time in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a table used for predicting the time available for shooting in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of the camera body in the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the prediction process for the shooting time in the third embodiment. [Figure 12]A table used for predicting the shootable time in the third and fourth embodiments. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional view of the cooling device in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] A flowchart showing the prediction process of the shootable time in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] An external perspective view showing the display unit of the camera body in each embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0011] (First Embodiment) First, referring to FIGS. 1(a) to 1(c), the camera body (imaging device, electronic device) 100 in the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1(a) is an external view (front perspective view) of the camera body 100. FIG. 1(b) is an external view (rear perspective view) of the camera body 100. FIG. 1(c) is a cross-sectional view of the camera body 100, showing the shape obtained by splitting the camera body 100 in half along the optical axis.

[0012] The display unit 101 provided on the rear surface of the camera body 100 is attached to the camera body 100 so as to be openable / closable and rotatable, and displays an image generated by imaging and various information related to imaging. The display unit 101 is equipped with a touch panel and can detect a user's touch operation on its display surface (operation surface). The finder external display unit 102 provided on the upper surface of the camera body 100 can display set values of various imaging parameters such as shutter speed and aperture.

[0013] The shutter button 103 is an operating member that the user operates when instructing the camera body 100 to take an image. The mode switch 104 is an operating member that the user operates when switching between various modes. The terminal cover 105 is a cover that protects the connector to which the connection cable extending from an external device is connected. The main electronic dial 106 is an operating member that the user rotates to change the set value of imaging parameters. The power switch 107 is an operating member that the user operates when switching the ON / OFF of the power of the camera body 100. The sub electronic dial 108 is an operating member that the user operates to move a selection frame such as a distance measurement (AF: autofocus) frame or to perform image scrolling.

[0014] On the back surface of the camera body 100, a multi-controller 109 is provided. The multi-controller 109 is configured to enable input by pressing the key top and tilting operations in the up, down, left, right, and diagonal directions. By the user operating the multi-controller 109, the selection frame can be moved or items in various menus can be selected.

[0015] The rear electronic dial 110 is an operating member that the user operates to move the selection frame or to perform image scrolling. The rear electronic dial 110 is arranged at a position where it is easy for the user to operate intuitively while reproducing the captured image on the display unit 101, and is also easy to operate even when the user holds the camera body 100 vertically.

[0016] A SET button 111 is provided at the center of the rear electronic dial 110. The SET button 111 is an operating member as a push button that the user operates when determining a selected item or the like.

[0017] The video button 112 is an operating element that the user operates to start and stop video recording. The button group 113 is an operating element related to focus and exposure, and includes an AF start button, an AE lock button, and an AF frame selection button arranged horizontally. By pressing these buttons 113 in the image capture standby state, the user can start AF, change the AF frame, or fix the exposure.

[0018] The button group 114 includes L-shaped zoom in / out buttons, information display buttons, and quick setting buttons. In the imaging mode, the user can switch the zoom in / out function on or off by operating the zoom in / out buttons in live view display mode. Similarly, in playback mode, the user can switch the zoom in / out function on or off by operating the zoom in / out buttons in playback mode.

[0019] By operating the information display button, the user can switch the display method of the information shown on the display unit 101. By operating the quick setting button, the user can quickly switch the display on the display unit 101 to the screen for changing the setting values ​​of the imaging parameters.

[0020] The button group 115 includes a play button and an erase button. By operating the play button, the user can switch between imaging mode and playback mode. When the play button is operated in imaging mode, the system switches to playback mode, and the most recent image captured from the images recorded on the media (not shown) can be displayed on the display unit 101. In playback mode, the user who has selected an image can erase the selected image by operating the erase button.

[0021] The button group 116 includes a menu button and a rating button. When the user operates the menu button, a menu screen displaying configurable items is displayed on the display unit 101. The user can intuitively select items and make settings by touching the menu screen displayed on the display unit 101, or by operating the multi-controller 109, the rear electronic dial 110, or the SET button 111. In playback mode, the user can rate the playback image by operating the rating button.

[0022] A replacement lens (lens device) (not shown) is detachably attached to the mount portion 117 of the camera body 100. A communication terminal 118 provided inside the mount portion 117 is used for communication between the camera body 100 and the replacement lens.

[0023] The viewfinder 119, located on the upper rear of the camera body 100, is an electronic viewfinder that allows the user to view a live view image or the like when looking through it. The viewfinder 119 is equipped with an eyepiece detection unit, which allows it to detect when the user is looking through (looking through) the viewfinder 119. The eyepiece cover 121 is a rubber material that comes into contact with the face around the user's eye when they look through the viewfinder 119.

[0024] The grip portion 122 is a gripping portion shaped to be easily held in the right hand by the user when holding the camera body 100. The card cover 123 is a cover that covers the media slot 153 for storing media. The card cover 123 is provided on the part of the grip portion 122 where the user's palm rests. The tripod mount 125 is a mounting member used when attaching external accessories to the bottom surface of the camera body 100. The bottom exterior member 137 is an exterior member that forms the bottom surface of the camera body 100. The bottom exterior member 137 has an opening (not shown), and the opening is shaped to allow the attachment of the main body cover (lid member) 124. The main body cover 124 is a protective member that is attached to the opening of the bottom exterior member 137 and protects the main body heat dissipation member 135 that is exposed from the exterior. The connection terminal 155 is an electrical component for electrically connecting to various external accessories.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1(c), the internal configuration of the camera body 100 will be described. The first circuit board 130 has an image sensor (electronic component) 131 such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) or CCD (Charge Coupled Device), which is a heat source, mounted on it. The second circuit board 132 has an electronic component 133 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 133a or DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), which is a heat source, mounted on it.

[0026] A first heat transfer member 134, made of a highly thermally conductive material such as aluminum sheet metal, copper sheet metal, or heat pipe, is positioned between the first circuit board 130 and the second circuit board 132. The image sensor 131 of the first circuit board 130 and the first heat transfer member 134 are thermally connected by a heat transfer material, such as a heat dissipation rubber or graphite sheet (not shown). The heat from the image sensor 131 of the first circuit board 130 is transferred to the first heat transfer member 134 via a heat transfer material (not shown).

[0027] The electronic component 133 of the second circuit board 132 and the first heat transfer member 134 are thermally connected by a heat transfer member, such as a heat dissipation rubber or graphite sheet (not shown). The heat from the electronic component 133 of the second circuit board 132 is transferred to the first heat transfer member 134 via the heat transfer member (not shown).

[0028] A bottom exterior member 137, which constitutes the bottom exterior, is placed on the bottom surface of the camera body 100, and a portion of the main body heat dissipation member 135, made of a highly thermally conductive material such as aluminum, magnesium, or copper, is exposed from the bottom exterior member 137. In this embodiment, an example in which the bottom exterior member 137 and the main body heat dissipation member 135 are placed on the bottom surface of the camera body 100 has been described, but it is not limited to this. Similar effects can be obtained by placing each member in a position that is substantially perpendicular to the first circuit board 130 and the second circuit board 132 (for example, on the top surface or side surface).

[0029] The first heat transfer member 134 and the main heat dissipation member 135 are thermally connected by screws (not shown) or the like, and heat from the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133 is transferred to the main heat dissipation member 135 via the first heat transfer member 134. In this embodiment, sheet metal is used as the first heat transfer member 134, but a heat transfer member such as a graphite sheet may also be used. Alternatively, heat may be directly transferred from the first circuit board 130 and the second circuit board 132 to the main heat dissipation member 135 using separate heat transfer members.

[0030] A portion of the main body heat dissipation member 135 is exposed through an opening in the bottom exterior member 137, and a main body cover 124 is attached to the opening in the bottom exterior member 137 so as to cover the exposed portion of the main body heat dissipation member 135. The main body cover 124 makes it possible to reduce the likelihood of the user inadvertently touching the exposed portion of the main body heat dissipation member 135, which has become hot, when the external cooling accessory (cooling device) 200 is not attached, and experiencing discomfort. In this embodiment, instead of providing the main body cover 124, the amount of recess in the exposed portion of the main body heat dissipation member 135 exposed from the bottom exterior member 137 may be increased to make it more difficult for the user to inadvertently touch it.

[0031] The main body component 138 is a major component of the camera body 100. The main body heat dissipation member 135 and the main body component 138 are thermally connected by a second heat transfer member 136, such as a heat dissipation rubber or graphite sheet. Heat transferred from the image sensor 131 or electronic component 133 to the main body heat dissipation member 135 is transferred to the main body component 138 by the second heat transfer member 136, and then transferred to the entire camera body 100 via the main body component 138. Note that the heat may be transferred not only to the main body component 138, but also to exterior components or internal sheet metal components. As a result, when the external cooling accessory 200 is not attached, heat from the image sensor 131 or electronic component 133 is contained in the main body heat dissipation member 135, making it possible to suppress the temperature rise of the image sensor 131 or electronic component 133.

[0032] The second heat transfer member 136 may be provided in multiple locations to transfer heat from the main body heat dissipation member 135 to the entire camera body 100. For example, heat may be transferred to the main body member 138 not just at one location, but at multiple locations, or multiple locations may be provided to transfer heat to exterior members or other members in addition to the main body member 138.

[0033] Figures 2(a) and 2(b) are external views and cross-sectional views of the external cooling accessory (cooling device) 200 in this embodiment. Figure 2(a) is a front perspective view of the external cooling accessory 200. Figure 2(b) is a cross-sectional view of the external cooling accessory 200 as seen from the direction of arrow AA in Figure 2(a).

[0034] Referring to Figure 2(a), the external configuration of the external cooling accessory 200 will be described. The external cooling accessory 200 comprises an accessory casing 201, a tripod screw 202, an accessory heat receiving member 203, and a connection terminal 251. By connecting the connection terminal 251 to the connection terminal 155 of the camera body 100, electrical connection and communication between the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 become possible.

[0035] The accessory heat receiving member 203 protrudes from the accessory casing 201a and is exposed from the accessory casing 201a. In this embodiment, there are two accessory heat receiving members 203, but the embodiment is not limited to this, and multiple accessory heat receiving members 203 may be provided in accordance with the locations of the main body heat dissipation member 135 provided on the camera body 100.

[0036] Referring to Figure 2(b), the internal configuration of the external cooling accessory 200 will be described. In addition to the accessory heat receiving member 203, the external cooling accessory 200 includes a storage container 204 that houses the refrigerant 206 and also serves as an exterior member, a heat sink (heat diffusion part) 205 that transfers heat to the refrigerant 206 inside the storage container 204, and an accessory exterior 201. In this embodiment, the storage container 204 that houses the refrigerant 206 also serves as the accessory exterior 201, but this is not limited to this, and the accessory exterior 201 may be placed outside the storage container 204. In that case, the storage container 204 is fixed to the accessory exterior 201 with screws (not shown) or the like.

[0037] The accessory heat receiving member 203 and the heat sink 205 are fixed together by the heat sink fixing part 207. In addition to receiving heat from the camera body 100, the accessory heat receiving member 203 also serves as a heat transfer path for transferring heat to the heat sink 205. In this embodiment, the accessory heat receiving member 203 and the heat sink 205 are separate parts, but the accessory heat receiving member 203 and the heat sink 205 may be constructed as a single unit without providing the heat sink fixing part 207.

[0038] The accessory heat receiving member 203 is mounted so as to penetrate the accessory casing 201a and has a liquid sealing portion 208 to prevent the refrigerant 206 from leaking out. The liquid sealing portion 208 is made of an elastic material and allows the accessory heat receiving member 203 to be finely adjusted in the vertical direction (Y direction). This configuration improves the contact between the main body heat dissipation member 135 of the camera body 100 and the accessory heat receiving member 203 of the external cooling accessory 200, thereby reducing thermal resistance.

[0039] Next, the applications of each part will be explained. The heat sink 205 can efficiently transfer heat to the refrigerant 206 by increasing its surface area. The heat sink 205 has multiple fins (protrusions) arranged along the Z direction. Each of the multiple fins protrudes in the -Y direction perpendicular to the Z direction. The shape of each of the multiple fins, such as the pitch or length, can be appropriately changed to be optimal depending on the size of the containment vessel 204 or the type of refrigerant 206.

[0040] The heat sink 205 may have multiple wall-shaped fins arranged as shown in this embodiment, or it may have cylindrical columns arranged at regular intervals. By arranging the cylindrical columns at intervals, the coolant 206 can move between the cylinders regardless of the orientation of the heat sink 205. As a result, temperature unevenness of the coolant 206 can be reduced regardless of the orientation (position) in which the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 are used. In order to ensure heat dissipation regardless of the orientation (position) of the external cooling accessory 200, the fins of the heat sink 205 are arranged so that they are not exposed to the air in any orientation and are filled with coolant 206.

[0041] It is known that when refrigerant 206 is water, it expands due to solidification at low temperatures (for example, its volume increases by about 10%). Therefore, in this embodiment, in order to prevent damage to the containment vessel 204 due to solidification of refrigerant 206 at low temperatures, it is preferable to put less refrigerant 206 into the containment vessel 204 than necessary, taking into account the expansion due to solidification. This reduces the concern that the containment vessel 204 may be damaged even if refrigerant 206 solidifies at low temperatures. In this embodiment, refrigerant 206 is not limited to water. This embodiment can also be applied to refrigerants that expand at high temperatures, for example. In this embodiment, refrigerant 206 may be a refrigerant with a low freezing point, such as ethylene glycol. Using a refrigerant with a low freezing point can help counteract the aforementioned expansion due to solidification.

[0042] Since the containment vessel 204 and heat sink 205 are constantly in contact with the refrigerant 206, it is preferable to select materials for them according to the type of refrigerant 206. When water is used as the refrigerant 206, it is preferable to use rust-resistant materials or to apply a rust-preventive coating. On the other hand, when ethylene glycol or the like is used as the refrigerant 206, since it is an organic solvent, materials such as metal are preferable.

[0043] The refrigerant 206 in the containment vessel 204 may be non-replaceable, or it may be configured to be replaceable by providing a separate refrigerant replacement section. Making the refrigerant 206 replaceable improves convenience, as the containment vessel 204 can be emptied when the refrigerant 206 is not needed, such as during transport.

[0044] The external cooling accessory 200 is equipped with a water level gauge (first measuring means) 290 for measuring the amount of refrigerant 206 filled in the containment vessel 204. Details of the control using the water level gauge 290 will be described later.

[0045] Figures 3(a) and 3(b) are schematic diagrams of the imaging system 10 configured by attaching the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 according to this embodiment. Figure 3(a) is a front perspective view of the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200. Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view of the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200, showing a cross-section on the same plane as in Figure 2(b).

[0046] Referring to Figure 3(a), the external configuration of the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 in their attached state will be described. The external cooling accessory 200 is detachably attached to the bottom surface of the camera body 100, and the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 are fixed together by the tripod mount 125 of the camera body 100 and the tripod screw 202 of the external cooling accessory 200.

[0047] Referring to Figure 3(b), the internal configuration of the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 when attached will be described. When the external cooling accessory 200 is attached to the camera body 100 by the tripod screw 202, the main body heat dissipation member 135 of the camera body 100 and the accessory heat receiving member 203 of the external cooling accessory 200 come into contact with each other. As a result, heat from the camera body 100 is transferred to the external cooling accessory 200.

[0048] Next, the method of heat transfer will be described in detail. Heat from the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133 of the camera body 100 is transferred to the main body heat dissipation member 135 by the first heat transfer member 134. When the external cooling accessory 200 is attached to the camera body 100, heat from the main body heat dissipation member 135 of the camera body 100 is transferred to the accessory heat receiving member 203 of the external cooling accessory 200.

[0049] The heat transferred to the accessory heat receiving member 203 is transferred to the heat sink 205, and then from the heat sink 205 to the refrigerant 206. The heat from the refrigerant 206 is transferred to the containment vessel 204, from the containment vessel 204 to the accessory outer casing 201, and then dissipated into the atmosphere from the surface of the accessory outer casing 201. Alternatively, an insulating configuration is also possible in which heat is not transferred from the containment vessel 204 to the accessory outer casing 201. This makes the refrigerant 206 inside the containment vessel 204 less susceptible to high ambient temperatures.

[0050] When water is used as the refrigerant 206, it is known that the heat capacity of water is very high compared to metals of a similar volume, and it can store a lot of heat. As a result, the heat from the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133 of the camera body 100 can be stored in the refrigerant 206, suppressing the temperature rise of the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133, and making it possible to extend the shooting time.

[0051] Unlike typical circulating water cooling systems, this embodiment does not directly transfer the cooled refrigerant to the heat-generating parts. Instead, it transfers the heat from the camera body 100 to an external cooling accessory 200 for cooling. This prevents the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133 from cooling down too rapidly, reducing the possibility of condensation on them. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for pumps, power supplies, and refrigerant circulation tubes required in circulating water cooling systems, resulting in a simpler configuration.

[0052] Next, the configuration of each part will be explained in detail. As mentioned above, in the camera body 100, the heat transferred to the main body heat dissipation member 135 is transferred to the entire camera body 100 by the second heat transfer member 136. This reduces the possibility that heat will accumulate in the main body heat dissipation member 135, making it difficult for the image sensor 131 and electronic components 133 to cool down, even when the external cooling accessory 200 is not attached.

[0053] On the other hand, when the external cooling accessory 200 is attached to the camera body 100, heat is transferred to the cooler side, so the heat from the camera body 100 is transferred to the external cooling accessory 200, which can suppress the temperature rise of the camera body 100.

[0054] Within the container 204 for the external cooling accessory 200, additional cooling means such as a Peltier element, a fan, or a cooling rod that thermally connects the external air and the refrigerant 206 may be provided. The cooling means can lower the temperature of the refrigerant 206, thereby further lowering the temperature of the camera body 100.

[0055] The external cooling accessory 200 may be housed in a container 204 that provides additional convection means, such as a fan or pump. The fan or pump can force convection into the refrigerant 206 inside the container 204. When the camera body 100 and the external cooling accessory 200 are stationary, no circulation or forced convection occurs, resulting in temperature unevenness in the refrigerant 206. By creating forced convection, the temperature unevenness in the refrigerant 206 is reduced, making it possible to lower the temperature of the camera body 100.

[0056] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an imaging system 10 equipped with a camera body 100 and an external cooling accessory 200. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 133a is a control unit that controls the operation of the entire camera body 100 and executes various processes and instructions to each circuit section. Various electronic components 133, including the CPU 133a, which is one of the heat-generating components, are mounted on the second circuit board 132. The second circuit board 132 is a printed wired board (PWB) and many of the various electrical circuits (detection circuits, control circuits, processing circuits), such as the camera microcontroller, are mounted on it. The CPU 133a controls each functional block of the camera body 100 and performs the necessary calculations according to the computer program loaded from memory. The power supply 150 supplies power to each circuit section within the camera body 100.

[0057] The image sensor 131 is composed of a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor and converts the optical image of the subject captured by the image sensor 131 into an image signal. The image signal obtained by the image sensor 131 is converted into image data by the image processing unit 151 and output to the CPU 133a. A shutter 156 is located in front of the image sensor 131 and adjusts the exposure time of the image sensor 131. The shutter control unit 154 drives the shutter 156 based on a signal input from the CPU 133a.

[0058] When the mode switch 104 is operated by the user, the operation detection unit 157 outputs a signal to the CPU 133a to change shooting conditions such as exposure and shutter speed.

[0059] The external cooling accessory 200, like the camera body 100, is equipped with an operating member 252 for setting various shooting conditions of the camera body 100. Signals from the operating member 252 are transmitted to the connection terminal 155 of the camera body 100 and the CPU 133a on the second circuit board 132 via the control board 250 and connection terminal 251.

[0060] The camera body 100 allows the user to select a desired video recording mode from several video recording modes (conditions) by operating the mode switch 104. These video recording modes include, for example, a high-quality mode (first condition) and a low-quality mode (second condition). When recording video in high-quality mode, the processing load on the image sensor 131 and CPU 133a is high, resulting in increased heat generation (power consumption) in the electronic component 133 and the media slot 153, thus shortening the video recording time. On the other hand, in low-quality mode, the heat generation (power consumption) of the electronic component 133 is lower compared to high-quality mode, resulting in a longer video recording time.

[0061] The water level gauge 290 is capable of measuring the water level, or filling amount, of the refrigerant 206 inside the containment vessel 204. The principle of measuring the water level by the water level gauge 290 is well known, so its explanation will be omitted. As shown in Figure 2(b), the water level gauge 290 is positioned on the bottom surface of the containment vessel 204. This makes it possible to reliably measure the water level even when the water level of the refrigerant 206 is low. The measurement result of the water level by the water level gauge 290 (output signal of the water level gauge 290) is transmitted via the control board 250 and connection terminal 251 to the CPU 133a mounted on the second circuit board 132 of the camera body 100.

[0062] The CPU 133a uses the table described later to obtain (calculate) the available operating time, such as the video recording time. In this embodiment, for simplicity, the water level of the refrigerant 206 is divided into three levels: high, medium, and low, but it is not limited to this.

[0063] The attitude detection means 158 provided on the camera body 100 determines whether the camera body 100 is in the upright position or the vertical position. As in the embodiment described later, the external cooling accessory may be equipped with a water thermometer (second measuring means) 292. The water thermometer 292 is an electronic component capable of measuring the temperature of the refrigerant 206 inside the containment vessel 204. The external cooling accessory may also be equipped with a plurality of water level gauges 290, 291 and a plurality of water thermometers 292, 293, as in the embodiment described later.

[0064] In this embodiment, the CPU 133a includes a receiving means 1331, an acquisition means 1332, and a display control means 1333. The receiving means 1331 receives information (first information) regarding the amount of refrigerant 206 stored in the external cooling accessory 200 through communication with the external cooling accessory 200. The acquisition means 1332 uses the information regarding the amount of refrigerant 206 to acquire information (second information) regarding the operating time of the camera body 100. The display control means 1333 causes the information regarding the operating time (second information, or display information for notifying the second information) to be displayed on the display unit 101.

[0065] Next, with reference to Figures 5 and 6(a) and 6(b), the process for predicting the video recording time (operational time) of the camera body 100 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a flowchart of the video recording time prediction process. Figures 6(a) and 6(b) are tables (first table) T1 used in the prediction process, and are information stored in the memory (storage means) 152 of the camera body 100. Figure 6(a) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in high-quality mode, and Figure 6(b) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in low-quality mode.

[0066] In step S1 of Figure 5, when the camera body 100 is powered on, the process proceeds to step S2. In step S2, the CPU 133a determines whether video mode is selected (whether video mode is on) based on the mode switch 104. If video mode is selected, the process proceeds to step S3. On the other hand, if video mode is not selected, the determination in step S2 is repeated.

[0067] In step S3, the CPU 133a determines whether high-quality mode or low-quality mode is selected. Subsequently, in steps S4 and S5, the CPU 133a performs two water level measurements to determine the water level of the refrigerant 206 in the containment vessel 204. That is, in step S4, the CPU 133a performs the first water level measurement (first water level measurement), and in step S5, it performs the second water level measurement (second water level measurement).

[0068] Next, in step S6, the CPU 133a determines whether the value obtained from the first water level measurement (first water level measurement) and the value obtained from the second water level measurement (second water level measurement) are the same. If it is determined that the first water level measurement and the second water level measurement are not the same, the process returns to step S4. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first water level measurement and the second water level measurement are the same, the process proceeds to step S7.

[0069] In this embodiment, whether the first water level measurement and the second water level measurement are the same is not limited to cases where these values ​​are exactly the same, but rather it is sufficient if they are close enough to be considered the same. For example, if the difference between the first water level measurement and the second water level measurement is within a predetermined range, these values ​​can be determined to be the same.

[0070] In step S7, the CPU 133a determines the water level (water level measurement). The water level determined here may be either the first water level measurement or the second water level measurement, or the average value of the first and second water level measurements. By determining the water level after performing multiple measurements in this way, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the water level measurement. In this embodiment, the water level measurement may be performed three or more times.

[0071] Next, in step S8, the CPU 133a (acquisition means 1332) acquires the recording time (video recording time). At this time, the CPU 133a uses the table T1 shown in Figures 6(a) and (b). Table T1 is information showing the relationship between the video mode, water level (first information), and recording time (video recording time, second information). Using table T1, the CPU 133a can acquire the video recording time from the video mode and water level information. Even in the same video mode, a higher water level means a larger volume of refrigerant 206, so the amount of heat transferred to the refrigerant 206, that is, the cooling effect on heat-generating components, is also greater, and the video recording time is longer.

[0072] For example, as shown in Figure 6(a), if the high-quality video mode is selected and the water level is determined to be high, the video recording time is set to 120 minutes. The video recording time is a predicted time for each video mode and each water level, and can be measured in advance or calculated by simulation. Even in the same high-quality video mode, when the water level is medium, the cooling effect of the refrigerant 206 is lower compared to when the water level is high, so the video recording time is shorter. In this embodiment, the video recording time in that case is 60 minutes. Furthermore, when the water level is low, the cooling effect is even lower, so the video recording time is even shorter, which in this embodiment is 30 minutes. Thus, even in the same video mode, the cooling effect differs depending on the water level, and the higher the water level, the longer the video recording time.

[0073] Next, let's explain what happens when low-quality mode is selected as the video mode. Low-quality mode has less information in the captured image and lower image quality than high-quality mode, so the power consumption of the camera body is lower and the amount of heat generated is also lower.

[0074] In low-quality mode, if the water level is determined to be high, the video recording time is 240 minutes. This is the same predicted time as in high-quality mode. In high-quality mode, as mentioned above, the video recording time when the water level is high is 120 minutes. However, at the same water level, the video mode, which consumes less power during video recording, will have a longer recording time. Therefore, in low-quality mode, when the water level is medium or low, the video recording time is also longer than in high-quality mode, at 120 minutes and 60 minutes, respectively.

[0075] In this embodiment, the predicted video recording time for each mode, obtained from the relationship between the video mode and the water level, is stored in memory 152 as table T1. In this embodiment, the CPU 133a (receiving means 1331) can obtain the operating time for each condition (such as high-quality mode or low-quality mode) from table T1.

[0076] In this embodiment, the shooting time is obtained using table T1, but this is not the only method. The CPU 133a may, for example, obtain (calculate) the shooting time using a predetermined function that takes the video mode and water level as variables.

[0077] Next, in step S9, the CPU 133a (display control means 1333) displays the video recording time acquired in step S8 using table T1 on the display unit 101. At this time, the display control means 1333 displays a numerical value or a graphic, or both (i.e., at least one of the numerical value or the graphic) on the display unit 101 indicating the video recording time. This allows the user to be notified of the remaining video recording time. The flow then ends in step S10.

[0078] As described above, the operating time (video recording time) of the camera body 100 can be notified to the user according to the video mode selected by the user and the amount of refrigerant (filling amount) filled in the storage container 204 of the external cooling accessory 200. As a result, the user can be aware of the available video recording time in advance. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the amount of refrigerant (filling amount) can be adjusted for the desired imaging time, or the shooting scene can be selected according to the available recording time, improving usability for the user.

[0079] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the external cooling accessory (cooling device) 300 in this embodiment. 292 is a water thermometer (second measuring means). The water thermometer 292 is an electronic component capable of measuring the temperature of the refrigerant 206 inside the containment container 204. The water thermometer 292 is located on the bottom surface of the containment container 204, similar to the water level gauge 290. This makes it possible to reliably measure the water temperature even when the water level of the refrigerant 206 is low. The structure of the external cooling accessory 300 other than the water thermometer 292 is the same as that of the external cooling accessory 200 described with reference to Figure 2. The water temperature measurement result from the water thermometer 292 is transmitted to the CPU 133a mounted on the second circuit board 132 of the camera body 100 via the control board 250 and connection terminal 251. The CPU 133a acquires the video recording time (operation time) using a table described later.

[0080] Next, the video recording time prediction process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9(a) and 9(b). Figure 8 is a flowchart of the video recording time prediction process. Figures 9(a) and 9(b) are tables (second tables) T2 used in the prediction process. Table T2 in Figures 9(a) and 9(b) is information stored in the memory 152 of the camera body 100. Figure 9(a) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in high-quality mode, and Figure 9(b) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in low-quality mode. Steps S1 to S7, S9, and S10 in Figure 8 are the same as in Figure 5, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0081] After the water level (water level measurement) is determined in step S7, the process proceeds to steps S21 and S22 for water temperature measurement. In steps S21 and S22, CPU 133a performs two water temperature measurements to determine the water temperature of the refrigerant 206 inside the containment vessel 204. Specifically, CPU 133a performs the first water temperature measurement (first water temperature measurement) in step S21 and the second water temperature measurement (second water temperature measurement) in step S22.

[0082] Next, in step S23, the CPU 133a determines whether the value obtained from the first water temperature measurement (first water temperature measurement) and the value obtained from the second water temperature measurement (second water temperature measurement) are the same. If it is determined that the first water temperature measurement and the second water temperature measurement are not the same, the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first water temperature measurement and the second water temperature measurement are the same, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0083] In this embodiment, whether the first water temperature measurement and the second water temperature measurement are the same is not limited to cases where these values ​​are exactly the same, but rather it is sufficient if they are close enough to be considered the same. For example, if the difference between the first water temperature measurement and the second water temperature measurement is within a predetermined range, these values ​​can be determined to be the same.

[0084] In step S24, the CPU 133a determines the water temperature (measured water temperature). The water temperature determined here may be either the first measured water temperature or the second measured water temperature, or the average value of the first and second measured water temperatures. By determining the water temperature after performing multiple measurements in this way, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the water temperature measurement. In this embodiment, the water temperature measurement may be performed three or more times.

[0085] Next, in step S25, the CPU 133a (acquisition means 1332) acquires the recording time (video recording time). At this time, the CPU 133a uses the table T2 shown in Figures 9(a) and (b). Table T2 is information showing the relationship between the video mode, water level (first information), water temperature (third information regarding the temperature of the refrigerant 206), and recording time (video recording time, second information). Using table T2, the CPU 133a can acquire the video recording time from the information of the video mode, water level, and water temperature. Even in the same video mode, a higher water level means a larger volume of refrigerant 206, so the amount of heat transferred to the refrigerant 206, that is, the cooling effect on heat-generating components, is also greater, and the video recording time is longer. Also, even if the water level does not change in a certain video mode, a lower water temperature means that the amount of heat transferred to the refrigerant 206, that is, the cooling effect on heat-generating components, is also greater, and the video recording time is longer.

[0086] In this embodiment, for example, when high-quality mode is selected as the video mode, the water level is determined to be high, and the water temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 120 minutes. The video recording time is a predicted time depending on the video mode, water level, and water temperature, and can be measured in advance or calculated by simulation. When high-quality mode is selected, even when the water level is high, if the water temperature is 35°C, the cooling effect of the refrigerant 206 is lower compared to when the water temperature is 23°C, so the video recording time is shorter. In this embodiment, the video recording time in that case is 90 minutes. Similarly, when the water level is medium, if the water temperature is 35°C, the video recording time is shorter compared to when the water temperature is 23°C, and the video recording time in that case is 45 minutes. Similarly, when the water level is low, the video recording times for 35°C and 23°C are 23 minutes and 30 minutes, respectively. Thus, even with the same video mode and water level, the cooling effect differs depending on the water temperature of refrigerant 206, and the lower the water temperature, the longer the video recording time.

[0087] Next, we will explain the case when low-quality mode is selected as the video mode. In low-quality mode, when the water level is determined to be high and the water temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 240 minutes. This time is the predicted time, just like in high-quality mode. In high-quality mode, as mentioned above, when the water level is high and the water temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 120 minutes. On the other hand, for the same water level and water temperature, the video mode, which consumes less power during video recording, will have a longer video recording time. Furthermore, even if the video mode and water level are the same, the video recording time differs depending on the water temperature, and this is also true when the water level is medium or low. For this reason, the measured values ​​of the video recording time in low-quality mode can be summarized as shown in Table T2.

[0088] In this embodiment, the measured values ​​of the video recording time obtained from the relationship between the video mode, water level, and water temperature are stored in memory 152 as table T2. In this embodiment, the video recording time obtained from table T2 in step S25 can be displayed on the display unit 101 to notify the user. In this embodiment, the CPU 133a (receiving means 1331) can obtain the operating time for each condition (mode such as high-quality mode or low-quality mode) from table T1.

[0089] In this embodiment, the shooting time is obtained using table T2, but this is not the only method. The CPU 133a may, for example, obtain (calculate) the shooting time using a predetermined function that takes the video mode, water level, and water temperature as variables.

[0090] Table T2 in this embodiment shows the cases where the water temperature is 23°C and 35°C. From these two data points, the relationship between water temperature and the video recording time can be expressed linearly. Therefore, it is possible to predict the video recording time even for water temperatures other than these two.

[0091] As described above, the operating time (video recording time) of the camera body 100 can be notified to the user according to the video mode selected by the user and the amount (filling amount) and temperature of the refrigerant 206 filled in the storage container 204 of the external cooling accessory 300. Therefore, according to this embodiment, more accurate predictions are possible than in the first embodiment, improving usability for the user.

[0092] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the camera body (electronic device, imaging device) 500 in this embodiment. 190 is an ambient temperature meter (third measuring means). The ambient temperature meter 190 is a thermometer for measuring the ambient temperature around the camera body 500. The ambient temperature meter 190 is located, for example, on the second circuit board 132 of the camera body 500. The structure of the camera body 500 other than the ambient temperature meter 190 is the same as that of the camera body 100 described with reference to Figure 1(c).

[0093] Next, the video recording time prediction process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12(a) and (b). Figure 11 is a flowchart of the video recording time prediction process. Figures 12(a) and (b) are tables (third tables) T3 used in the prediction process. Table T3 in Figures 12(a) and (b) is information stored in the memory 152 of the camera body 100. Figure 12(a) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in high-quality mode, and Figure 12(b) shows the table used for predicting the recording time in low-quality mode. Steps S1 to S24 in Figure 11 are the same as in Figure 8, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0094] After the water temperature (water temperature measurement) is determined in step S24, the process moves to steps S31 and S32 for measuring the ambient temperature. In steps S31 and S32, the CPU 133a performs two ambient temperature measurements to determine the temperature outside the camera body 500 (ambient temperature). Specifically, the CPU 133a performs the first ambient temperature measurement (first ambient temperature measurement) in step S31 and the second ambient temperature measurement (second ambient temperature measurement) in step S32.

[0095] Next, in step S33, the CPU 133a determines whether the value obtained from the first outside temperature measurement (first outside temperature measurement) and the value obtained from the second outside temperature measurement (second outside temperature measurement) are the same. If it is determined that the first outside temperature measurement and the second outside temperature measurement are not the same, the process returns to step S31. On the other hand, if it is determined that the first outside temperature measurement and the second outside temperature measurement are the same, the process proceeds to step S34.

[0096] In this embodiment, whether the first and second ambient temperature measurements are the same is not limited to cases where these values ​​are exactly the same; it is sufficient if the values ​​are close enough to be considered the same. For example, if the difference between the first and second ambient temperature measurements is within a predetermined range, these values ​​can be determined to be the same.

[0097] In step S34, the CPU 133a determines the ambient temperature (ambient temperature measurement). The ambient temperature determined here may be either the first ambient temperature measurement or the second ambient temperature measurement, or the average value of the first and second ambient temperature measurements. By determining the ambient temperature after performing multiple measurements in this way, it is possible to improve the accuracy of the ambient temperature measurement. In this embodiment, ambient temperature measurements may be performed three or more times.

[0098] Next, in step S35, the CPU 133a (acquisition means 1332) acquires the recording time (video recording time). At this time, the CPU 133a uses the table T3 shown in Figures 12(a) and (b). Table T3 is information showing the relationship between the video mode, water level (first information), water temperature (third information), ambient temperature (fourth information related to the temperature of the camera body 500), and recording time (video recording time, second information). Using table T3, the CPU 133a can acquire the video recording time from the information of the video mode, water level, water temperature, and ambient temperature. When the ambient temperature is higher than the water temperature, the water temperature rises over time due to the influence of the ambient temperature in addition to the influence of the heat-generating components. Therefore, even if the water level and water temperature do not change in a given video mode, a higher ambient temperature results in a lower cooling effect on the heat-generating components, and thus a shorter video recording time.

[0099] In this embodiment, for example, when high-quality mode is selected as the video mode, the water level is high, the water temperature is determined to be 23°C, and the ambient temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 120 minutes. The video recording time is a predicted time for each video mode, water level, water temperature, and ambient temperature, and can be measured in advance or calculated by simulation. When high-quality mode is selected, even when the water level is high and the water temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is shorter when the ambient temperature is 30°C compared to 23°C because, as mentioned above, the cooling effect of the refrigerant is lower. In this embodiment, the video recording time in that case is 100 minutes. Similarly, when the water temperature is 35°C, the video recording time is shorter when the ambient temperature is 30°C compared to 23°C, and in this embodiment it is 72 minutes. Similarly, when the water level is medium or low, the video recording time for each water temperature and ambient temperature is shown in Table T3. Thus, even with the same video mode, water level, and water temperature, the cooling effect differs depending on the ambient temperature, and the lower the ambient temperature, the longer the video recording time.

[0100] Next, we will explain the case when low-quality mode is selected as the video mode. In low-quality mode, if the water level is determined to be high, the water temperature is 23°C, and the ambient temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 240 minutes. This is the same predicted time as in high-quality mode. In the aforementioned high-quality mode, if the water level is high, the water temperature is 23°C, and the ambient temperature is 23°C, the video recording time is 120 minutes. However, for the same water level, water temperature, and ambient temperature, the video mode, which consumes less power during video recording, will have a longer video recording time. Furthermore, even if the video mode, water level, and water temperature are the same, the video recording time will differ depending on the ambient temperature, and this is also true when the water level is medium or low. For this reason, the predicted video recording time in low-quality mode is summarized in Table T3.

[0101] In this embodiment, the measured values ​​of the video recording time obtained from the relationship between the video mode and the water level, water temperature, and ambient temperature are stored in memory 152 as table T3. In this embodiment, the video recording time obtained from table T3 in step S35 can be displayed on the display unit 101 to notify the user. In this embodiment, the CPU 133a (receiving means 1331) can obtain the operating time for each condition (mode such as high-quality mode or low-quality mode) from table T1.

[0102] In this embodiment, the shooting time is obtained using table T3, but this is not the only method. The CPU 133a may, for example, obtain (calculate) the shooting time using a predetermined function that takes the video mode, water level, water temperature, and ambient temperature as variables.

[0103] Table T3 shows the results for water temperatures of 23°C and 35°C, and ambient temperatures of 23°C and 30°C, but it is not limited to these cases. For other water temperatures and ambient temperatures, it is possible to predict the video recording time for various water and ambient temperatures by using the closest value as an approximation. Therefore, by using simulations and other methods to obtain more predicted values ​​for water temperature, ambient temperature, and video recording time depending on the video mode and water level, the accuracy of predicting video recording time can be improved.

[0104] As described above, the operating time (video recording time) of the camera body 100 can be notified to the user according to the video mode selected by the user, the amount (filling amount) and temperature of the refrigerant 206 filled in the storage container 204 of the external cooling accessory 300, and the ambient temperature. Therefore, according to this embodiment, more accurate predictions are possible than in the first and second embodiments, improving usability for the user.

[0105] (Fourth Embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figures 13(a) and (b) are cross-sectional views showing the internal structure of the external cooling accessory (cooling device) 400 in this embodiment. 290 and 291 are water level gauges (first measuring means). 292 and 293 are water temperature gauges (second measuring means). Thus, the external cooling accessory 400 of this embodiment is equipped with a plurality of water level gauges and a plurality of water temperature gauges. The water level gauges 290 and 291 and the water temperature gauges 292 and 293 are each located on the bottom surface of the containment container 204. This makes it possible to reliably measure the water level and water temperature even when the water level of the refrigerant 206 is low. In this embodiment, the structure other than the water level gauges and water temperature gauges is the same as that of the external cooling accessory 300 shown in Figure 7.

[0106] Figure 13(a) shows the orientation of the camera body 100 when taking a picture in the upright position. Figure 13(b) shows the orientation of the camera body 100 when taking a picture in the vertical position. The CPU 133a can determine whether the orientation of the camera body 100 is upright or vertical using the orientation detection means 158 provided on the camera body 100.

[0107] As shown in Figure 13(a), when the camera body 100 is in the upright position, it is possible to detect the water level and water temperature using either of the multiple water level gauges and water temperature gauges. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 13(b), when the camera body 100 is in the vertical position, depending on the amount (filling amount) of refrigerant 206, the refrigerant 206 may not come into contact with the water level gauge 291 and water temperature gauge 293. As a result, it becomes impossible to correctly measure the water level and water temperature. Therefore, in this embodiment, when the camera body 100 is determined to be in the vertical position using the attitude detection means 158, the video recording time prediction process is performed using the measurement results of the water level and water temperature gauges that are capable of measuring the water level and water temperature from among the multiple water level gauges and multiple water temperature gauges. If multiple water level gauges and multiple water temperature gauges are all capable of measuring, any of the water level gauges and water temperature gauges may be used. Alternatively, the average value of the measurements from multiple water level gauges and the average value of the measurements from multiple water temperature gauges can also be used.

[0108] Next, the video recording time prediction process in this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a flowchart of the video recording time prediction process. Note that Figure 14 is the same as Figure 11 except that step S41 is inserted between steps S3 and S4. In this embodiment, the prediction process is performed using the table T3 shown in Figures 12(a) and (b).

[0109] In step S41, the CPU 133a uses the attitude detection means 158 to detect the attitude of the camera body 100 (determining whether the camera body 100 is in the upright or vertical position). Then, according to the determination result, the CPU 133a decides which of the multiple water level gauges and multiple water thermometers to use for measuring the water level and water temperature (selecting the measurement results to be used for measuring the water level and water temperature). Specifically, the receiving means 1331 receives multiple first pieces of information regarding the amount of refrigerant 206 filled from each of the multiple first measuring means (water level gauges 290, 291), and multiple third pieces of information regarding the temperature of the refrigerant 206 from each of the multiple second measuring means (water thermometers 292, 293). Then, the acquisition means 1332 selects the first and third pieces of information to be used to acquire second pieces of information regarding the operating time of the camera body 100, according to the attitude of the camera body 100.

[0110] As described above, according to this embodiment, by taking into account the orientation of the camera body 100, it is possible to predict the video recording time more accurately, and an improvement in user convenience can be expected.

[0111] Furthermore, as described in the first to fourth embodiments, the water level inside the containment container 204 can be measured using a water level gauge. Therefore, it is also possible to determine whether or not the heat sink 205 of the external cooling accessory 200 is in contact with the refrigerant 206. For example, the CPU 133a determines, based on the water level measurement result from the water level gauge, whether or not the heat sink 205 is in contact with the refrigerant 206. In this case, the CPU 133a may determine that the heat sink 205 is in contact with the refrigerant 206 if, for example, the amount of refrigerant 206 filled is less than or equal to a predetermined amount. If the amount of refrigerant 206 filled is small, the CPU 133a (display control means 1333) can display a message (warning message) on the display unit 101 prompting the user to fill with refrigerant 206, as shown on the display unit 101 of the camera body 100 in Figure 15.

[0112] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0113] Each embodiment of the disclosure includes the following configuration and method. (Composition 1) An electronic device with a detachable cooling device, A receiving means that receives first information regarding the amount of refrigerant stored in the cooling device through communication with the cooling device, An acquisition means for acquiring second information relating to the operating time of the electronic device using the first information, An electronic device characterized by having a display control means for displaying the second information on a display unit. (Configuration 2) The electronic device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information for each condition. (Composition 3) The system further includes a storage means for storing a first table that shows the relationship between the first information and the second information, The electronic device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the first table. (Composition 4) The system further includes a storage means for storing a second table that shows the relationship between the first information, the second information, and a third piece of information relating to the temperature of the refrigerant. The receiving means receives the third information through the communication with the cooling device, The electronic device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the second table. (Composition 5) A third measuring means for measuring the temperature of the electronic device, The system further includes a storage means for storing a third table that shows the relationship between the first information, the second information, the third information relating to the temperature of the refrigerant, and the fourth information relating to the temperature of the electronic device. The receiving means receives the third information through the communication with the cooling device, The electronic device according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the third table. (Composition 6) The system further includes attitude detection means for detecting the attitude of the electronic device, The receiving means receives a plurality of first pieces of information from each of the plurality of first measuring means for measuring the filling amount, and receives a plurality of third pieces of information regarding the temperature of the refrigerant from each of the plurality of second measuring means for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant. The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that the acquisition means selects the first information and the third information used to acquire the second information according to the posture. (Composition 7) The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, characterized in that the display control means displays a warning on the display unit when the amount of refrigerant filled is less than or equal to a predetermined amount. (Composition 8) The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the display control means causes the display unit to display at least one of a numerical value or a graphic indicating the operating time. (Composition 9) The aforementioned electronic device is an imaging device, The electronic device according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that the operating time is the video recording time of the imaging device. (Composition 10) A cooling device that can be attached to and detached from electronic equipment, A storage vessel for storing the refrigerant, A first measuring means for measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the storage container, A cooling device characterized by having a transmitting means for transmitting first information relating to the filling amount by communicating with the electronic device. (Composition 11) The cooling device according to configuration 10, characterized in that the first measuring means is a water level gauge. (Composition 12) The system further includes a second measuring means for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant, The cooling device according to configuration 10 or 11, characterized in that the transmitting means transmits third information relating to the temperature by communication with the electronic device. (Composition 13) The cooling device according to any one of configurations 10 to 12, further comprising a heat diffusion section that transfers heat from the electronic components of the electronic device to the coolant. (Composition 14) An imaging system comprising an imaging device and a cooling device that can be attached to or detached from the imaging device, The cooling device, A storage vessel for storing the refrigerant, A first measuring means for measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the storage container, It has a transmitting means that transmits first information regarding the filling amount by communicating with the imaging device, The imaging device is A receiving means that receives the first information by communicating with the cooling device, An acquisition means that uses the first information to acquire second information regarding the operating time of the imaging device, An imaging system characterized by having a display control means for displaying the second information on a display unit. (Method 1) A control method for electronic equipment with a detachable cooling device, The steps include: receiving first information regarding the amount of refrigerant stored in the cooling device through communication with the cooling device; A step of obtaining second information regarding the operating time of the electronic device using the first information, A method for controlling an electronic device, characterized by comprising the step of displaying the second information on a display unit. (Method 2) A method for controlling a cooling device that can be attached to or detached from an electronic device, A step of measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the containment vessel, A method for controlling a cooling device, characterized by comprising the step of transmitting first information relating to the filling amount by communication with the electronic device. (Composition 15) A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the electronic device control method described in Method 1. (Composition 16) A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the cooling device control method described in Method 2.

[0114] Although 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 its gist. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 100, 500 Camera body (electronic device) 101 Display section 200, 300, 400 External Cooling Accessories (Cooling Devices) 1331 Receiving means 1332 Acquisition means 1333 Display control means

Claims

1. An electronic device with a detachable cooling device, A receiving means that receives first information regarding the amount of refrigerant stored in the cooling device through communication with the cooling device, An acquisition means for acquiring second information relating to the operating time of the electronic device using the first information, An electronic device characterized by having a display control means for displaying the second information on a display unit.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information for each condition.

3. The system further includes a storage means for storing a first table that shows the relationship between the first information and the second information, The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the first table.

4. The system further includes a storage means for storing a second table that shows the relationship between the first information, the second information, and a third piece of information relating to the temperature of the refrigerant. The receiving means receives the third information through the communication with the cooling device, The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the second table.

5. A third measuring means for measuring the temperature of the electronic device, The system further includes a storage means for storing a third table that shows the relationship between the first information, the second information, the third information relating to the temperature of the refrigerant, and the fourth information relating to the temperature of the electronic device. The receiving means receives the third information through the communication with the cooling device, The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means acquires the second information using the third table.

6. The system further includes attitude detection means for detecting the attitude of the electronic device, The receiving means receives a plurality of first pieces of information from each of the plurality of first measuring means for measuring the filling amount, and receives a plurality of third pieces of information regarding the temperature of the refrigerant from each of the plurality of second measuring means for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition means selects the first information and the third information used to acquire the second information according to the orientation.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display control means displays a warning on the display unit when the amount of refrigerant filled is less than or equal to a predetermined amount.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the display control means causes the display unit to display at least one of a numerical value or a graphic indicating the operating time.

9. The aforementioned electronic device is an imaging device, The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the operating time is the video recording time of the imaging device.

10. A cooling device that can be attached to and detached from electronic equipment, A storage vessel for storing the refrigerant, A first measuring means for measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the storage container, A cooling device characterized by having a transmitting means for transmitting first information relating to the filling amount by communicating with the electronic device.

11. The cooling device according to claim 10, characterized in that the first measuring means is a water level gauge.

12. The system further includes a second measuring means for measuring the temperature of the refrigerant, The cooling device according to claim 10, characterized in that the transmitting means transmits third information relating to the temperature by communication with the electronic device.

13. The cooling device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising a heat diffusion section that transfers heat from the electronic components of the electronic device to the refrigerant.

14. An imaging system comprising an imaging device and a cooling device that can be attached to or detached from the imaging device, The cooling device, A storage vessel for storing the refrigerant, A first measuring means for measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the storage container, It has a transmitting means that transmits first information regarding the filling amount by communicating with the imaging device, The imaging device is A receiving means that receives the first information by communicating with the cooling device, An acquisition means that uses the first information to acquire second information relating to the operating time of the imaging device, An imaging system characterized by having a display control means for displaying the second information on a display unit.

15. A control method for electronic equipment with a detachable cooling device, The steps include: receiving first information regarding the amount of refrigerant stored in the cooling device through communication with the cooling device; A step of obtaining second information regarding the operating time of the electronic device using the first information, A method for controlling an electronic device, characterized by comprising the step of displaying the second information on a display unit.

16. A method for controlling a cooling device that can be attached to or detached from an electronic device, A step of measuring the amount of refrigerant stored in the containment vessel, A method for controlling a cooling device, characterized by comprising the step of transmitting first information relating to the filling amount by communication with the electronic device.

17. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method for electronic equipment described in claim 15.

18. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the cooling device control method described in claim 16.

Images