CONTROL DEVICE, LENS DEVICE, IMAGING DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM

Abstract

To provide a control unit that can prevent a focus lens from staying in an MF dedicated area against the intention of a user during a return from a collapsed state to a photographing state, and can improve the operability for the user.SOLUTION: A control unit (111) has: first control means (111a) that automatically adjusts a focus lens to a focus position; second control means (111b) that adjusts the focus lens based on the amount of operation performed by a user; and third control means (111c) that controls the focus lens based on the position of a lens barrel. The first and second control means are effective in a first drive area of the focus lens. The first control means is ineffective in a second drive area of the focus lens. The position of the lens barrel includes a first lens barrel position and a second lens barrel position. When the position of the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position, the third control means controls the focus lens to be located in the first drive area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device capable of adjusting a focus by driving a focus lens, and a control method thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, as a lens barrel used as an interchangeable lens of an imaging device, there is known a lens barrel having a so-called "collapsible" structure that allows the overall length of the lens barrel to be shortened by moving the manual zoom ring further out of the shooting range. Patent Document 1 discloses a lens barrel that is collapsed by rotating the manual zoom ring.

[0003] Also, autofocus (AF) and manual focus (MF) are known as methods for driving a focus lens to perform focus adjustment. AF is a method for performing focus adjustment by calculating the in-focus position of the focus lens based on an AF evaluation value generated by an AF sensor. MF is a method for performing focus adjustment by a user manually operating a focus ring. Patent Document 2 discloses a method for switching area modes based on electronic cam (tracking curve) information indicating the relationship between the zoom lens position and the focus lens position at which a focused state is maintained during zooming. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-002858 A [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5843442 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the method disclosed in Patent Document 2, the area mode may be unintentionally switched when the user retracts the lens barrel to interrupt shooting. Here, the area mode includes a mode related to an AF-enabled area where focus adjustment is possible in both AF and MF, and an MF-only area where focus adjustment is possible only in MF.

[0006] In the MF-only area, it is possible to drive the focus lens and obtain an image from the image sensor, but AF cannot be performed due to restrictions on the angle of incidence of light entering the AF sensor, etc. For this reason, if a user who has been using the lens in the MF-only area retracts the lens to interrupt shooting, and then returns the lens to shooting mode to start shooting again while in the MF-only area, the user may be confused by the fact that AF is not possible.

[0007] The user's intention when putting the camera in the retracted state is that the user will not be taking pictures for a while. Therefore, there is a possibility that the user may forget that the camera was in the MF-only area when the camera was in the retracted state. Normally, even if the battery or lens is removed, it is desirable for the camera to reflect the user's intention not to take pictures for a while and to be able to start using the camera in the AF-enabled area when it is used again.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a control device, lens device, imaging device, control method, and program that can prevent the camera from remaining in the MF-only area against the user's intention when returning from a retracted state to a shooting state, thereby improving user operability. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A control device according to one aspect of the present invention is a focus control device. On the occasion of Sing lens Position yourself In motion control a first control means for controlling the Record NZ Location User operation Control according to the operation and a second control means for The above lens Hold The telescope tube situation Based on the previous Record NZ Location A third control means for controlling And The first control means and the second control means Record N's Position first Territory In the region Control The first control means Different from the first region second Territory In the region does not control the position of the lens , the above Telescope tube The first situation and, Applicable First situation The second one is shorter in overall length than situation and It can be switched with The third control means Recording mirror The cylinder is the second situation From the first situation When changing to Record NZ Position of The first Territory area Inside To N Control the operation so that

[0010] Other objects and features of the present invention are illustrated in the following examples. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a control device, a lens device, an imaging device, a control method, and a program that can prevent the lens from remaining in the MF-only area against the user's intention when returning from a retracted state to a shooting state, thereby improving user operability. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an imaging device in each embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an AF possible area and an MF exclusive area in each embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between the zoom lens position and the minimum shooting distance in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram showing an intermediate area between an imaging area and a retractable area in the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 5 is a flowchart showing a control method during transition to retraction in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 5 is a flowchart showing a control method when releasing the retracted barrel in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a control method when releasing the retracted barrel in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] 13 is a flowchart showing a control method when releasing the retracted barrel in the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0014] First, the configuration of the imaging device in each embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an imaging device 10. The imaging device 10 is configured with a camera body (imaging device body) 200 and an interchangeable lens (lens device) 100 that is detachable from the camera body 200. However, the imaging devices in each embodiment are not limited to this, and the camera body and the lens device may be configured integrally.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 100 is mechanically and electrically connected to the camera body 200 via a mount (not shown). The interchangeable lens 100 receives power from the camera body 200 via a power supply terminal (not shown) provided on the mount described above. The interchangeable lens 100 uses the power received from the camera body 200 to control various actuators (described below) and a lens microcomputer 111. The camera body 200 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 via a communication terminal unit (not shown) provided on the mount described above, and controls the interchangeable lens 100 by sending control commands to the interchangeable lens 100.

[0016] The camera body 200 has an image sensor 201 having a phase difference AF sensor function, a signal processing circuit 202, a recording processing unit 203, a display unit 204, an operation unit 205, and a camera microcomputer 206. The image sensor 201 has a CMOS sensor or a CCD sensor, and performs photoelectric conversion on a subject image (optical image) formed by an imaging optical system in the interchangeable lens 100, and outputs an electrical signal (analog signal). The analog signal output from the image sensor 201 is converted into a digital signal by an A / D conversion circuit (not shown).

[0017] The signal processing circuit 202 performs various image processing on the digital signal from the A / D conversion circuit to generate a video signal. The signal processing circuit 202 also generates, from the video signal, focus information indicating the contrast state of the subject image, i.e., the focus state of the imaging optical system, and luminance information indicating the exposure state. The signal processing circuit 202 also outputs the video signal to a display unit 204, which displays the video signal as a live view image used to check the composition, focus state, and the like. The signal processing circuit 202 also outputs the video signal to a recording processing unit 203. The recording processing unit 203 stores the video signal in an external memory or the like as still images or moving image data.

[0018] Camera microcomputer 206, which serves as a camera control unit, controls camera body 200 in response to inputs from an image capture instruction switch and various setting switches included in operation unit 205. Camera microcomputer 206 also transmits control commands related to the light amount adjustment operation of aperture unit 103 in response to luminance information and the focus adjustment operation of focus lens 105 in response to focus information to lens microcomputer 111 via the camera communication unit.

[0019] Interchangeable lens 100 has an imaging optical system, control units that control actuators that drive the imaging optical system, an operation ring 110 for operating focus lens 105, and a lens microcomputer 111. Interchangeable lens 100 also has a collapsing mechanism 113 for changing the overall length of the lens, and a collapsing operation ring 114 for operating the collapsing mechanism. Collapsing operation ring 114 is an operation means for switching between a first lens barrel position (image-capable position) and a second lens barrel position (collapsing position) by a user's operation.

[0020] The retraction operation ring 114 can be configured integrally with the operation ring that operates the zoom lens 102, but may be provided separately. The retraction operation ring 114 is not limited to being ring-shaped as long as it can switch between the retracted state and the shooting state. Preferably, when the retraction operation ring 114 is configured integrally with the operation ring of the zoom lens 102, the position of the operation ring for switching to the retracted state is not between the WIDE end (wide-angle end) and the TELE end (telephoto end), but is a position that shortens the overall length of the lens barrel from the WIDE end.

[0021] The lens microcomputer 111 is a lens control unit (control device) that controls the operation of each unit in the interchangeable lens 100. The lens microcomputer 111 receives a control command transmitted from the camera body 200 via the communication unit, and receives a request to transmit lens data. The lens microcomputer 111 also performs lens control corresponding to the control command, and transmits lens data corresponding to the transmission request to the camera body 200. The lens microcomputer 111 also outputs commands to the aperture control unit 107 and the focus lens control unit 109 in response to a command related to light amount adjustment and a command related to focusing among the control commands. The aperture control unit 107 and the focus lens control unit 109 drive the aperture unit 103 and the focus lens 105, respectively, according to the command from the lens microcomputer 111. This allows the aperture unit 103 and the focus lens 105 to perform a light amount adjustment process, and an autofocus process that controls a focus adjustment operation. The lens microcomputer 111 also outputs a command to the focus lens control unit 109 in accordance with the amount of operation of the operation ring 110 to drive the focus lens 105 and control the focus adjustment operation.

[0022] Furthermore, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the retractable mechanism 113 is in a shooting state (shooting possible position, first lens barrel position), a retracted state (retracted position, second lens barrel position), or an intermediate state (third lens barrel position) according to the amount of operation of the retractable ring 114. The retracted state is a state in which the overall length of the interchangeable lens 100 is shortened by moving the arrangement of the internal imaging optical system, thereby improving portability. It is used mainly to transition from the shooting state by operating the retractable ring 114 when the user interrupts shooting.

[0023] In particular, when the interior of the interchangeable lens 100 is in a state where focusing is not possible, an error message can be displayed on the display unit 204 of the camera body 200 from the lens microcomputer 111 via the communication unit to prevent the user from accidentally taking a photograph. Alternatively, the user may be prompted to move to a photographing state by issuing a sound or closing the aperture unit 103.

[0024] The interchangeable lens 100 in the collapsed state transitions to a shooting state when the user operates the collapse mechanism 113 by operating the collapse operation ring 114. This causes the interchangeable lens 100 to perform normal operations such as control of the focus lens 105 and the aperture unit 103, which will be described later, and control of the image stabilization lens 104 (image stabilization).

[0025] In each embodiment, the lens microcomputer 111 has a first control means 111a, a second control means 111b, a third control means 111c, a switching means 111d, a storage means 111e, and a retraction detection unit 111f. The first control means 111a automatically adjusts the focus lens 105 to a focus position (AF control). The second control means 111b manually adjusts the focus lens 105 (based on the amount of operation by the user) (MF control). The third control means 111c drives the focus lens 105 (such as control when returning from a retracted state to a shooting state). The switching means 111d switches between a first lens barrel position (shooting possible position, shooting state) and a second lens barrel position (retracted position, retracted state) in which the total length of the imaging device 10 is shorter than that of the first lens barrel position. The storage means 111e is an internal memory of the lens microcomputer 111, and stores information regarding the first position of the focus lens 105 (the position of the focus lens 105 at the time of switching) when switching from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position.

[0026] In each embodiment, an example has been described in which the lens microcomputer 111 has the first control means 111a, the second control means 111b, the third control means 111c, the switching means 111d, the memory means 111e, and the retraction detection unit 111f. This can be considered as being equivalent to the lens microcomputer 111 having functions corresponding to the first control means 111a, the second control means 111b, the third control means 111c, the switching means 111d, the memory means 111e, and the retraction detection unit 111f, respectively.

[0027] As described below, the first control means 111a and the second control means 111b are effective in a first driving region (AF possible region) of the focus lens 105, and the first control means 111a is ineffective in a second driving region (MF exclusive region) of the focus lens 105. The third control means 111c drives the focus lens 105 based on a change in the switching means 111d (a change in the retraction mechanism 113 by the retraction operation ring 114 to a position corresponding to either the retracted state or the shooting state).

[0028] In each embodiment, the third control unit 111c controls the focus lens 105 to be located in the first driving region (AF possible region) when the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position (retracted position) to the first lens barrel position (position capable of photographing). When the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position, for example, the retraction detection unit 111f detects that the lens barrel has entered a photographing state due to switching from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position by the retraction mechanism 113. Here, consider a case where the focus lens 105 is at a first position within the range of the second driving region when changing from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position. At this time, when changing from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position (when detecting that the lens barrel has entered a photographing state), the third control unit 111c moves the focus lens 105 to a second position within the range of the first driving region.

[0029] Also, consider a case where the focus lens 105 is at a first position within the range of the first driving region when changing from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position. In this case, preferably, when changing from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position (when detecting that the lens barrel has entered a shooting state), the third control means 111c moves the focus lens 105 to a second position within the range of the first driving region. More preferably, when the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position, the third control means 111c moves the focus lens 105 within the range of the first driving region so as to maintain the subject distance. More preferably, the storage means 111e stores information regarding the first position of the focus lens 105 in the first driving region when the lens barrel changes from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position. The third control means 111c moves the focus lens 105 to a second position in the first driving range so as to maintain the subject distance when the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position. The third control means 111c also calculates a second position for maintaining the subject distance based on the first position.

[0030] Preferably, the third control means 111c moves the focus lens 105 to an end of the first driving range when the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position. If the focus lens 105 changes from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position while being located in the first driving range, the third control means 111c may not move the focus lens when changing from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position.

[0031] The timing for detecting the retracted state and the image capturing state is not limited to the timing when the first lens barrel position is switched to the second lens barrel position. Any timing may be detected as long as the state changes due to switching between the retracted state and the image capturing state. For example, the third control unit 111c can move the focus lens 105 to the first drive region after the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position (after the retraction detection unit 111f detects the change in the lens barrel position).

[0032] Alternatively, the third control means 111c may move the focus lens 105 to the first driving region when the lens barrel changes from the first lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position. That is, when the third control means 111c detects that the lens barrel has changed from the shooting state to the retracted state, it executes the operation when it detects that the lens barrel has changed from the retracted state to the shooting state again (the change from the shooting state to the retracted state is used as a trigger). In this case, when the lens barrel changes from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position after the focus lens 105 has moved, the focus lens 105 is located in the first driving region.

[0033] Preferably, the third control means 111c moves the focus lens to the first drive region when changing from the first lens barrel position to the third lens barrel position, from the third lens barrel position to the second lens barrel position, or from the second lens barrel position to the third lens barrel position. The third lens barrel position will be described later.

[0034] Preferably, the retraction operation ring 114 is configured integrally with an operation ring that operates the zoom lens 102. In addition, the first lens barrel position is between the WIDE end and the TELE end, and the second drive region is a region in which the overall length of the lens barrel is further shortened compared to when it is not at the first lens barrel position but at the WIDE end.

[0035] Preferably, the storage means 111e stores electronic cam data that indicates the relationship between the position of the zoom lens 102 and the position of the focus lens 105 so as to maintain a focused state according to the subject distance.

[0036] The imaging optical system includes a field lens 101, a zoom lens 102 that changes the magnification, an aperture unit 103 that adjusts the amount of light, an image shake correction lens 104, and a focus lens 105 that adjusts the focus. The zoom lens 102 is movable in a direction along an optical axis OA indicated by a dashed line in the figure (optical axis direction), and is driven in the optical axis direction by a user operating a zoom operation unit connected to a zoom mechanism (not shown). This causes the movement of the zoom lens 102 to change the magnification (zoom), changing the focal length of the imaging optical system.

[0037] The zoom lens position detector 106 detects the position of the zoom lens using a position detection sensor such as a variable resistor, and outputs position data of the zoom lens 102 to the lens microcomputer 111 .

[0038] The aperture unit 103 is configured to include aperture blades and sensors such as Hall elements. The state of the aperture blades is detected by the aforementioned sensors and output to the lens microcomputer 111. The aperture control unit 107 outputs a drive signal according to a command from the lens microcomputer 111 to drive an actuator such as a stepping motor or a voice coil motor. This allows the aperture unit 103 to adjust the amount of light.

[0039] The image stabilization lens 104 reduces image shake caused by camera shake or the like by moving in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis OA of the imaging optical system. The image stabilization lens control unit 108 outputs a drive signal to drive the anti-shake actuator according to the shake detected by a shake sensor (not shown) such as a vibration gyroscope, and in accordance with a command from the lens microcomputer 111. This allows anti-shake processing to be performed that controls the shift operation of the image stabilization lens 104.

[0040] The focus lens 105 is movable in the optical axis direction, and detects the position of the focus lens 105 using a position detection sensor such as a photointerrupter and outputs the position data to the lens microcomputer 111. The focus lens control unit 109 outputs a drive signal in accordance with a command from the lens microcomputer 111 to drive an actuator such as a stepping motor and move the focus lens 105 to perform focus adjustment.

[0041] In addition, the focus lens 105 corrects image plane fluctuations caused by the magnification change caused by the zoom lens 102. In a rear focus type variable magnification optical system, the image plane fluctuations caused when the zoom lens 102 is moved to change the magnification are corrected by moving the focus lens 105, thereby performing zoom tracking control to maintain the in-focus state.

[0042] The AF / MF switching SW (setting means) 112 selects the first control means 111a or the second control means 111b as a focus adjustment means for performing focus adjustment, which will be described later. The lens microcomputer 111 sets the first control means 111a or the second control means 111b as a focus adjustment means based on the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112. For example, the AF / MF switching SW 112 sets the first drive mode (AF mode) or the second drive mode (MF mode). When the first drive mode is set, the second control means 111b is ineffective in the second drive range. On the other hand, when the second drive mode is set, the second control means 111b is effective in the second drive range. Also, when the second drive mode is set, the third control means 111c moves the focus lens 105 within the range of the entire drive range including the first drive range and the second drive range so as to maintain the subject distance.

[0043] Preferably, when the retraction operation ring 114 is operated with the lens barrel in the second lens barrel position, the second control means 111b does not move the focus lens 105. Also preferably, when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera body 200, the first control means 111a moves the focus lens 105 to the first drive region.

[0044] Next, the AF possible area and the MF dedicated area will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the AF possible area and the MF dedicated area. Here, the AF possible area is an area where focus adjustment is possible in both AF and MF, and the MF dedicated area is an area where focus adjustment is possible only in MF. In this embodiment, the AF possible area is an area between the AF / MF infinity end and the AF end, and the MF dedicated area is an area between the MF closest end and the AF closest end. Also, in this embodiment, the area combining the AF possible area and the MF dedicated area is the total driving area.

[0045] The imaging device 10 of each embodiment can perform focus adjustment by driving the focus lens 105 in autofocus (AF) for automatic focus adjustment and manual focus (MF) for manual focus adjustment. In AF, the camera microcomputer 206 calculates the in-focus position of the focus lens 105 based on an AF evaluation value corresponding to a video signal generated by the imaging element 201, and transmits a control command related to focusing to the lens microcomputer 111 via the camera communication unit. In response to the control command transmitted from the camera microcomputer 206, the lens microcomputer 111 outputs a command to the focus lens control unit 109 to drive the focus lens 105 to control the focus adjustment operation. In MF, the lens microcomputer 111 outputs a command to the focus lens control unit 109 according to the amount of operation of the operation ring 110, and drives the focus lens 105 to control the focus adjustment operation.

[0046] The AF possible area shown in Fig. 2 is an area where focus adjustment is possible by both AF and MF. Therefore, subject B present in the AF possible area can be focused by both AF and MF. On the other hand, the MF-only area shown in Fig. 2 is an area where focus adjustment by AF is not possible and only focus adjustment by MF is possible because the AF evaluation value cannot be calculated accurately. Therefore, subject A present in the MF-only area can only be focused by MF.

[0047] A control method for the image capture device 10 in each embodiment will be described in detail below. EXAMPLES

[0048] First, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the relationship between the zoom lens position and the minimum shooting distance. In FIG. 3, the vertical axis indicates the zoom lens position (the position of the zoom lens 102), and the horizontal axis indicates the minimum shooting distance. As shown in FIG. 3, in the shooting range from the TELE end to the WIDE end, the minimum shooting distance changes according to the position of the zoom lens 102, and the shooting distance position that was an AF-enabled range on the WIDE side becomes an MF-only range on the TELE side. Also, in the retractable range on the extension line of the WIDE end, the optical system is moved to a position where focusing is not possible in order to shorten the overall length of the lens barrel, so that it becomes an AF / MF-unavailable range regardless of the minimum shooting distance. These ranges can be transitioned by moving the zoom lens position by operating the manual zoom ring.

[0049] In this manner, in this embodiment, the AF possible area (AF / MF possible area) and the MF-only area switch depending on the zoom position, and the retracted area exists on an extension of the TELE end of the zoom position.

[0050] 4 is a diagram showing the relationship between the zoom lens position and the minimum shooting distance when an intermediate area is added between the shooting area and the retracted area in FIG. 3. By providing an intermediate area in this way, when the retracted detection unit 111f detects a switch to the shooting state or the retracted state, it may detect not only the switch between the shooting area and the retracted area, but also the switch between the intermediate area and the shooting area, or between the intermediate area and the retracted area. Thus, in this embodiment, the position of the lens barrel includes a first lens barrel position (shooting area) and a second lens barrel position (retracted area) whose total length is shorter than that of the first lens barrel position. Preferably, the position of the lens barrel includes a third lens barrel position (intermediate area) between the first lens barrel position and the second lens barrel position.

[0051] Next, a control method for transitioning to a retracted state of the imaging device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the control method for transitioning to a retracted state, and shows the processing performed when the interchangeable lens 100 in an imaging state transitions to the retracted state by the user operating the retraction operation ring 114.

[0052] First, in step S101, the lens microcomputer 111 (retraction detection unit 111f) determines whether or not the interchangeable lens 100 has transitioned (switched) from a shooting state to a retracted state by the retraction mechanism 113 using the switching means 111d. If the interchangeable lens 100 has not transitioned to the retracted state in step S101, the lens microcomputer 111 repeats the detection of step S101. On the other hand, if the interchangeable lens 100 has transitioned to the retracted state, the process proceeds to step S102.

[0053] In step S102, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the current focus lens position is in the MF dedicated area. If the current focus lens position is in the MF dedicated area, the process proceeds to step S103. In step S103, the lens microcomputer 111 sets the MF dedicated area flag (MF dedicated area flag information) ON, and the process proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, if the current focus lens position is not in the MF dedicated area in step S102, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, the lens microcomputer 111 sets the MF dedicated area flag OFF, and the process proceeds to step S105.

[0054] In step S105, the lens microcomputer 111 performs a retraction transition process (sleep transition process). At that time, the lens microcomputer 111 stores necessary information such as the current position information of the focus lens 105, MF dedicated area flag information, and position information of the zoom lens 102 in storage means 111e capable of holding information in the retracted state. This allows the lens microcomputer 111 to hold necessary information in the retracted state even when the lens microcomputer 111 has transitioned to the retracted state.

[0055] In the retracted state, the lens microcomputer 111 prevents the user from taking pictures by displaying an error message on the display unit 204 of the camera body 200 via the communication unit, emitting a sound, or closing the aperture unit 103 to prompt the user to transition to a shooting state.

[0056] Next, a control method for releasing the retracted state of the imaging device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the control method for releasing the retracted state, and shows the process in which the interchangeable lens 100 in the retracted state transitions to the shooting state by the switching means 111d.

[0057] First, in step S201, the lens microcomputer 111 (retraction detection unit 111f) determines whether the retracted state of the interchangeable lens 100 has been released. If the switching means 111d is not operated and the interchangeable lens 100 maintains the retracted state, the lens microcomputer 111 repeats the detection of step S201. On the other hand, if the user operates the retraction operation ring 114 and the retraction detection unit 111f detects a change from the retracted state to the shooting state, the process proceeds to step S202.

[0058] In step S202, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the AF possible area flag stored in the storage unit 111d at the time of the transition to retraction is ON. If the AF possible area flag is ON, that is, if it is assumed that the user has performed an AF operation, the process proceeds to step S203. On the other hand, if the AF possible area flag is OFF, the process proceeds to step S204.

[0059] In step S203, the lens microcomputer 111 calculates the subject distance at the time of the transition to retraction based on the position information of the focus lens 105, the position information of the zoom lens 102, and the electronic cam data stored in the storage means 111d at the time of the transition to retraction. The lens microcomputer 111 also detects the zoom lens position using the position detection sensor of the zoom lens position detection unit 106, and calculates the focus lens position that maintains the subject distance at the time of the transition to retraction at the current zoom lens position. That is, in step S203 of Fig. 6, the focus lens position is calculated based on the focus lens position at the time of the transition to retraction, the current zoom lens position, and the electronic cam data at the subject distance so as to maintain the subject distance at the time of the transition to retraction.

[0060] Then, the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 to the calculated focus lens position. This makes it possible to maintain the position of the subject distance focused at the time of transition to retraction in an AF-enabled state when the retraction is released, even if the zoom lens position or focus lens position moves while the camera is retracted, while the camera is in the AF-enabled range.

[0061] In step S204, the lens microcomputer 111 calculates a focus lens position that maintains the subject distance at the time of retraction at the current zoom lens position, similar to step S203. The lens microcomputer 111 then determines whether the AF / MF switching SW 112 has selected AF or MF. If AF has been selected, the process proceeds to step S205. On the other hand, if MF has been selected, the process proceeds to step S206.

[0062] In step S205, the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 to the AF possible area regardless of the position information of the focus lens 105 and the position information of the zoom lens 102 stored in the storage means 111d at the time of the retraction. This makes it possible to perform focus adjustment by AF when the retraction is released. Note that in this embodiment, the focus lens 105 is moved to the edge of the AF possible area in step S205, but this is not limited to this.

[0063] In step S206, similar to step S203, lens microcomputer 111 calculates a focus lens position that maintains the subject distance at the time of the retraction transition at the current zoom lens position. Lens microcomputer 111 then moves focus lens 105 to the calculated focus lens position. This makes it possible to maintain the position of the subject distance focused at the time of the retraction transition when the retraction is released, even if the position of the zoom lens or focus lens moves during retraction by a user who has been using the zoom lens in the MF dedicated area.

[0064] As described above, it is possible to prevent the user from unintentionally returning to a shooting state in the MF dedicated area when releasing the retracted barrel, and by maintaining the subject distance at the time of transition to retraction as much as possible when releasing the retracted barrel, it is possible to improve user operability. EXAMPLES

[0065] Next, a description will be given of a second embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, even if the focus lens position is in an MF-only area when the camera is retracted, the focus lens position is returned to the AF-enabled area according to the settings of the camera body 200.

[0066] If the position of focus lens 105 is in the MF dedicated area when switching from the first lens barrel position (shooting state) to the second lens barrel position (retracted state), third control means 111c moves focus lens 105 in accordance with a command from camera body 200. That is, if the first position is in the MF dedicated area when transitioning to retraction, third control means 111c moves focus lens 105 to the second position in the AF possible area when releasing the retraction.

[0067] A control method for releasing the retracted state of the imaging device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing the control method for releasing the retracted state, and shows the process of the interchangeable lens 100 in the retracted state transitioning to the shooting state by the switching means 111d. Note that the process of transitioning from the shooting state to the retracted state is the same as the process in the first embodiment described with reference to Fig. 5, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0068] First, in step S301, the lens microcomputer 111 (retraction detection unit 111f) determines whether the retracted state of the interchangeable lens 100 has been released. If the switching means 111d has not been operated and the interchangeable lens 100 remains in the retracted state, the lens microcomputer 111 repeats the detection of step S301. On the other hand, if the retraction detection unit 111f detects that the user has operated the retraction operation ring 114 and the retraction detection unit 111f has switched from the retracted state to the shooting state, the process proceeds to step S302.

[0069] In step S302, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the MF dedicated area flag stored in the storage unit 111d at the time of transition from the shooting state to the retracted state is ON. If the MF dedicated area flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S303. On the other hand, if the MF dedicated area flag is OFF, the process proceeds to step S304.

[0070] In step S303, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the AF possible area return flag is ON or not. The AF possible area return flag is switched ON / OFF by the lens microcomputer 111 in accordance with a notification from the camera body 200. There are no limitations on the timing at which the camera body 200 notifies the switching of the AF possible area return flag of the interchangeable lens 100. Note that, when the AF possible area return flag is switched while the interchangeable lens 100 is in a shooting state, the information needs to be stored in storage means (memory) 111d capable of storing information when in a retracted state when the interchangeable lens 100 transitions to a retracted state.

[0071] The AF area return flag can be switched by a setting on the camera body 200 as a trigger for the camera body 200 to switch the AF possible area return flag, or the flag may be switched by an operation on the camera body 200. For example, when the shutter button on the camera body 200 is pressed, it is assumed that the user desires to perform an AF operation. For this reason, the AF possible area return flag is set to ON, and the interchangeable lens 100 is always returned to a state in which AF is possible, thereby making it possible to improve user operability.

[0072] If the AF possible area return flag is ON in step S303, proceed to step S304. On the other hand, if the AF possible area return flag is OFF, proceed to step S307. In step S307, similar to step S203 in the first embodiment, the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 so as to maintain the subject distance at the time of the transition to retraction in the zoom lens position at the time of release of the retraction. At this time, the position of the focus lens 105 may be in the MF dedicated area.

[0073] In step S304, similar to step S204 in the first embodiment, the lens microcomputer 111 calculates a focus lens position that maintains the subject distance at the time of the retraction transition at the current zoom lens position. Then, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether or not the calculated focus lens position (focus lens position that maintains the same subject) is in the MF-only area. If the focus lens position that maintains the same subject is in the MF-only area, the process proceeds to step S305. On the other hand, if the focus lens position that maintains the same subject is not in the MF-only area, the process proceeds to step S306. Note that step S305 is similar to step S205 in the first embodiment, and the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 to the AF area. Step S306 is similar to step S206 in the first embodiment, and the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 so as to maintain the subject distance at the time of the retraction transition at the zoom lens position at the time of the retraction release. At this time, the position of the focus lens 105 is in the AF-enabled area.

[0074] As described above, in this embodiment, in accordance with a notification from the camera body 200, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether or not to always return the position of the focus lens 105 to the AF-enabled area when the interchangeable lens 100 is released from the retracted state. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy with which the user can avoid unintentionally moving the focus lens 105 to the MF-only area, thereby improving operability for the user. EXAMPLES

[0075] Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, when the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112 of the interchangeable lens 100 is MF, even if the focus lens position is in the AF possible area when transitioning to retraction, the focus lens position is returned to the MF dedicated area.

[0076] A control method for releasing the retracted state of the imaging device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the control method for releasing the retracted state, and shows the process in which the interchangeable lens 100 in the retracted state transitions to the shooting state by the switching means 111d. Note that the process for transitioning from the shooting state to the retracted state is the same as the process in the first embodiment described with reference to Fig. 5, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0077] First, in step S401, the lens microcomputer 111 (retraction detection unit 111f) determines whether the retracted state of the interchangeable lens 100 has been released. If the switching means 111d is not operated and the interchangeable lens 100 maintains the retracted state, the lens microcomputer 111 repeats the detection of step S401. On the other hand, if the retraction detection unit 111f detects that the retraction operation ring 114 has been operated by the user and the retraction detection unit 111f has switched from the retracted state to the shooting state, the process proceeds to step S402.

[0078] In step S402, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the MF dedicated area flag stored in the storage unit 111d at the time of transition from the shooting state to the retracted state is ON. If the MF dedicated area flag is ON, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if the MF dedicated area flag is OFF, the process proceeds to step S403.

[0079] In step S403, the lens microcomputer 111 determines whether the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112 of the interchangeable lens 100 is MF (MF state). If the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112 is MF, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112 is AF, the process proceeds to step S405. Note that in this embodiment, the AF / MF switching SW 112 is provided in the interchangeable lens 100, but this is not limiting, and the AF / MF switching SW may be provided in the camera body 200.

[0080] In step S404, similar to step S203 in the first embodiment, the lens microcomputer 111 moves the focus lens 105 so as to maintain the subject distance at the zoom lens position at the time of retraction. At this time, since the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112 is MF, it is assumed that the user desires MF operation. Therefore, the position of the focus lens 105 may be in the MF-only area.

[0081] In step S405, similar to step S204, the lens microcomputer 111 calculates a focus lens position that maintains the subject distance at the time of the retraction transition at the current zoom lens position. The lens microcomputer 111 then determines whether or not the calculated focus lens position (focus lens position that maintains the same subject) is in the MF-only area. If the focus lens position that maintains the same subject is in the MF-only area, the process proceeds to step S406. On the other hand, if the focus lens position that maintains the same subject is not in the MF-only area, the process proceeds to step S407.

[0082] Step S406 is similar to step S205 in the first embodiment, and lens microcomputer 111 moves focus lens 105 to the edge of the AF possible area. Step S407 is similar to step S206 in the first embodiment, and lens microcomputer 111 moves focus lens 105 so as to maintain the subject distance at the time of transition to retraction at the zoom lens position when the retraction is released. Steps S406 and S407 are processes that are executed when the state of AF / MF switching SW 112 is AF, and lens microcomputer 111 always moves the position of focus lens 105 to the AF possible area.

[0083] As described above, in this embodiment, whether or not to return the focus lens position to the MF dedicated area is determined based on the state of the AF / MF switching SW 112. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of preventing the user from unintentionally moving the focus lens to the MF dedicated area, thereby improving user operability.

[0084] (Other Examples) The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0085] According to each embodiment, it is possible to provide a control device, a lens device, an imaging device, a control method, and a program that can prevent the lens from remaining in the MF-only area against the user's intention when returning from a retracted state to a shooting state, thereby improving user operability.

[0086] 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.

[0087] For example, the third control means 111c may move the focus lens 105 to a fourth position in the first driving region when the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera body 200 or when a battery is inserted with the interchangeable lens 100 attached to the camera body 200. This control may also be executed if there is no information stored in the storage means 111e when switching from the second lens barrel position to the first lens barrel position. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 111 Lens microcomputer (control device) 111a First control means 111b Secondary control means 111c Third means of control

Claims

1. a first control means for automatically controlling a lens position during focusing; a second control means for controlling the position of the lens in response to a user operation; a third control means for controlling a position of the lens based on a state of a lens barrel holding the lens; the first control means and the second control means control the position of the lens in a first region; the first control means does not control the position of the lens in a second region different from the first region; the lens barrel is switchable between a first state and a second state in which the overall length is shorter than that of the first state, The control device, wherein the third control means controls the position of the lens to be within the first region when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state.

2. 2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the third control means moves the position of the lens within the first region so as to maintain a subject distance when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state.

3. The control device described in Claim 2, characterized in that the third control means moves the position of the lens so as to maintain the subject distance based on information regarding the position of the lens in the first state before changing to the second state.

4. 2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the third control means moves the lens to an end of the first region when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state.

5. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the third control means does not move the lens when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state after the lens barrel changes from the first state to the second state with the lens located in the first area.

6. 6. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the third control means controls the position of the lens to be within the first region after the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state.

7. the third control means controls the position of the lens to be within the first region when the lens barrel changes from the first state to the second state, and further 6. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state, the position of the lens is maintained within the first region.

8. the lens barrel is switchable to a third state in which the overall length is shorter than that of the first state and longer than that of the second state; 8. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the third control means controls the position of the lens to be within the first region when the lens barrel changes from the first state to the third state, when the lens barrel changes from the third state to the second state, or when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the third state.

9. A first driving mode in which the second control means is disabled when the position of the lens is within the second region; A setting unit for switching between the first driving mode and a second driving mode for enabling the second control unit, The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that in the second driving mode, the third control means controls the position of the lens within a range including the first area and the second area so as to maintain a subject distance.

10. the first state corresponds to a state between a wide-angle end and a telephoto end, 10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the second state is a state in which the overall length of the lens barrel is shorter than a state corresponding to the wide-angle end.

11. 11. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the first state is a shooting-enabled state, and the second state is a retracted state.

12. A lens device comprising a control device described in any one of claims 1 to 11 and the lens.

13. 13. The lens device according to claim 12, further comprising an operation unit that switches between the first state and the second state in response to a user's operation.

14. 14. The lens device according to claim 13, wherein when the operating means is operated while the lens barrel is in the second state, the second control means does not control the position of the lens.

15. 15. The lens device according to claim 12, wherein, when the lens device is attached to an imaging device, the first control means controls the position of the lens so that the position is within the first region.

16. An imaging device comprising: a control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and an imaging element that receives light from the lens.

17. A first control step of automatically adjusting the lens to a focus position; a second control step of adjusting the lens based on an amount of operation by a user; and a third control step of controlling the lens based on a position of a lens barrel, the first control step and the second control step are effective in a first region of the lens; the first control step being ineffective in a second region of the lens; the position of the lens barrel includes a first state and a second state in which the overall length of the lens barrel is shorter than that of the first state; A control method characterized in that, in the third control step, when the lens barrel changes from the second state to the first state, the lens is controlled so as to be positioned in the first region.

18. A program causing a computer to execute the control method according to claim 17.

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