Imaging device, accessory device, control method thereof, and program

Abstract

To provide an imaging device used in an imaging system in which both the imaging device and an accessory device are capable of implementing FP functions, and which allows the initial setting of the FP functions to be appropriately performed.SOLUTION: An imaging device (200) to which at least one accessory device (100) can be detachably connected comprises: camera communication means (202) capable of communicating with the accessory device; and camera control means (201) that is capable of receiving first initial setting information regarding the initial setting of a first function which drives a focus lens to a predetermined first focus position from the accessory device, and that has a second function capable of requesting the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a predetermined second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information about the initial setting of the second function such that it differs at least partially from the first initial setting information on the basis of the first initial setting information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an imaging device or an accessory device having a focus preset (FP) function is known. Patent Document 1 discloses an optical device that prevents movement to an initial FP position that the user does not intend at all by setting the position at the time of power-on as the initial FP position. Patent Document 2 discloses an optical device capable of registering two FP positions, and describes an embodiment in which the focus position at the closest moving end (closest end) and the focus position at the infinite far moving end (infinite end) are set as the initial FP positions.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not disclose a configuration in which both an imaging device and an accessory device have an FP function, and an appropriate initial setting of the FP function in such a configuration. Therefore, the user needs to change to a desired setting and may miss a shooting opportunity.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device that can be used in an imaging system in which both an imaging device and an accessory device can be equipped with an FP function and can appropriately perform an initial setting of the FP function.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An imaging device as one aspect of the present invention is an imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, comprising: a camera communication means capable of communicating with the accessory device; and a camera control means having a second function that can receive from the accessory device by the camera communication means first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of a first function of driving a focus lens to a preset first focus position, and can request from the accessory device by the camera communication means to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position, wherein the camera control means sets second initial setting information relating to the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes information on whether the accessory device has the first function, the second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, and the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating infinity if the accessory device does not have the first function. do.

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

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an imaging device that can be used in an imaging system in which both the imaging device and the accessory device are capable of incorporating FP functionality, and that can appropriately perform the initial setup of the FP functionality. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of the imaging system in Example 1. [Figure 2] This flowchart shows the processing of the FP function of the accessory device in Example 1. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram of the initial settings for the FP function of the accessory device in Example 1. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows the processing of the FP function of the imaging device in Example 1. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram of the initial settings of the FP function of the imaging device in Example 1. [Figure 6]This table shows the combinations of initial settings for the FP position of the imaging system in Example 1. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the initial setup when both the accessory device and the imaging device in Example 1 have FP functionality. [Figure 8] This is an explanatory diagram of the sequence of the FP function of the imaging system in Example 1. [Figure 9] This table shows the combinations of initial settings for the FP speed of the imaging system in Example 2. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

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

[0011] Embodiment 1 of the present invention relates to an imaging system (interchangeable lens camera system) in which both the imaging device and the accessory device are equipped with a focus preset (FP) function, and the initial FP position setting of each is changed according to the combination of the imaging device and the accessory device. By using the FP function, the user can move the focus lens position to any position at any time. The FP function includes a focus preset drive (FP drive) function that drives the focus lens position to a predetermined position (FP position), and a focus preset registration (FP registration) function that sets the FP position to a position desired by the user. If FP drive is performed without FP registration, the focus lens is driven to a predetermined initial position (initial FP position).

[0012] <Configuration of the imaging system> Referring to Figure 1, the imaging system (interchangeable lens camera system) 10 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is a block diagram of the imaging system 10. The imaging system 10 comprises a camera body (imaging device) 200 and an interchangeable lens (accessory device) 100 that is detachably attached to the camera body 200.

[0013] The interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 can be mechanically and electrically connected via a mount 300, which is a coupling mechanism. Note that the mount 300 in FIG. 1 schematically shows a state in which the mount of the interchangeable lens 100 and the mount of the camera body 200 are coupled, and these mounts are detachable from each other.

[0014] Communication terminals (not shown) are provided on the mount surfaces of the mounts of the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200, respectively. In a state of being connected via the mount 300, the corresponding communication terminals come into contact with each other, enabling communication between the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 via the communication terminals. Power is supplied from the camera body 200 to the interchangeable lens 100 via a power terminal (not shown) provided on the mount 300, causing various actuators and the lens microcomputer (lens control means, accessory control means) 101, which will be described later, to operate.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 100 has an optical unit 103 including an imaging optical system. The optical unit 103 (imaging optical system) includes, in order from the subject OBJ side, a field lens 104, a zoom lens 105 that performs zooming, an aperture unit 113 that adjusts the light amount, an anti-shake lens 116 that reduces (corrects) image blur, and a focus lens 109 that performs focus adjustment. <000009​​​​​The interchangeable lens 100 also has a lens operation unit 120 that can be operated by the user. The lens operation unit 120 has a lens FP registration button 121 and a lens FP drive button 122. Details of the lens FP registration button 121 and the lens FP drive button 122 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. Note that the configuration of the lens operation unit 120 is not limited to this, and can be appropriately changed according to the functions mounted on the interchangeable lens 100. The lens operation unit 120 may have, for example, a manual operation ring (so-called electronic ring) that can be rotated by the user, or a switch that can switch AF / MF.

[0018] The interchangeable lens 100 also has a lens microcomputer (lens microcontroller) 101. The lens microcomputer 101 can communicate with the camera body 200 via a lens communication unit (lens communication means, accessory communication means) 102. The lens microcomputer 101 can also drive and control the optical unit 103 and acquire its status via control circuits 108, 112, 115, and 118. The lens microcomputer 101 controls the operations of each member within the interchangeable lens 100 based on the status of the optical unit 103, the operations of the lens operation unit 120, or commands from the lens communication unit 102.

[0019] For example, the lens microcomputer 101 drives and controls the focus lens 109 by setting the number of drive pulses (unit: PULSE) and the drive speed (unit: PULSE / SEC = pps) for the control circuit 112 as necessary. Furthermore, the lens microcomputer 101 acquires the current position (unit: PULSE) of the focus lens 109 via the control circuit 112 as necessary.

[0020] The camera body 200 has an imaging element 203, an A / D conversion circuit 204, a signal processing circuit 205, a recording unit 206, a camera microcomputer (camera microcontroller) 201, a display unit 207, and a camera operation unit 210.

[0021] The image sensor 203 is a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) sensor, etc. The image sensor 203 converts the subject image formed by the imaging optical system in the interchangeable lens 100 into an electrical signal (analog signal) through photoelectric conversion.

[0022] The A / D conversion circuit 204 converts the analog signal from the image sensor 203 into a digital signal. The signal processing circuit 205 performs various image processing on the digital signal from the A / D conversion circuit 204 to generate a video signal. The signal processing circuit 205 also generates focus information, which indicates the contrast state of the subject image (focus state of the imaging optical system), and brightness information, which indicates the exposure state, from the video signal. The signal processing circuit 205 outputs the video signal to the display unit 207, which displays the video signal as a live view image used for checking composition, focus state, etc.

[0023] The camera microcontroller (camera control means) 201 controls the camera body 200 in response to inputs from the camera operation unit 210, such as the imaging instruction switch and various setting switches. The camera microcontroller 201 can receive accessory FP initial setting information (first initial setting information) from the interchangeable lens 100 via the camera communication unit 202, which relates to the initial setting of driving the focus lens 109 to a preset first focus position. The camera microcontroller 201 also has a camera FP function (second function) which allows the camera communication unit 202 to request the interchangeable lens 100 to drive the focus lens 109 to a preset second focus position. Based on the accessory FP initial setting information, the camera microcontroller 201 sets camera FP initial setting information (second initial setting information) relating to the initial setting of the camera FP function so as to differ from at least a part of the accessory FP initial setting information (first initial setting information).

[0024] In addition, the camera operation unit 210 in this embodiment is an operation means operable by the user, and includes a camera FP registration button 211 and a camera FP drive button 212. Details of the camera FP registration button 211 and the camera FP drive button 212 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0025] The camera microcomputer 201 transmits a control command or a transmission request command to the interchangeable lens 100 via the camera communication unit (camera communication means) 202 as necessary, and receives lens data from the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the camera microcomputer 201 transmits a focus drive request command capable of transmitting the number of drive pulses (unit: PULSE) and the drive speed (unit: PULSE / SEC = pps) to the interchangeable lens 100 according to focus information or an input from the camera operation unit 210. Thereby, the camera microcomputer 201 can control the focus lens 109. The camera microcomputer 201 transmits a focus position information transmission request command for acquiring lens position information including the current position (unit: PULSE) of the focus lens 109 to the interchangeable lens 100 as necessary. The camera microcomputer 201 also receives lens position information from the interchangeable lens 100.

[0026] <Accessory device having FP function> Next, the interchangeable lens (accessory device) 100 having the FP function in this embodiment will be described. The interchangeable lens 100 includes a lens operation unit 120 as a member for the user to operate the FP function (lens FP function, accessory FP function, first function) mounted on the interchangeable lens 。The lens FP function is a function of driving the focus lens 109 to a preset first focus position.

[0027] The lens operation unit 120 includes a lens FP registration button 121 for FP registration and a lens FP drive button 122 for instructing the start of FP drive. Note that the member for operating the lens FP function is not limited to this. For example, a configuration in which FP drive is started by operating an arbitrary ring (not shown) of the interchangeable lens 100 may be used.

[0028] Referring to Figure 2, the processing of the lens FP function of the interchangeable lens 100 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the processing of the lens FP function. This flow starts when the lens microcontroller 101 is started up.

[0029] First, in step S200, the lens microcontroller 101 performs a process to initialize the settings (lens FP settings) necessary to control the lens FP function. In this embodiment, the initial setting of the FP position (lens FP position), which is one of the lens FP settings (initial lens FP position, initial accessory FP position, first initial position information), is set to the infinity position of the focus lens 109 (information indicating infinity). In addition, the initial setting of the drive speed (lens FP speed), which is another of the lens FP settings (initial lens FP speed, initial accessory FP speed, first initial speed information), is set to the maximum speed at which the focus lens 109 can be driven (maximum focus drive speed).

[0030] Note that the lens FP settings to be initialized and their contents are not limited to those shown. For example, the initial lens FP position may be set to the closest focusing position, or the initial lens FP speed may be set to the maximum speed considering the noise impact on video. Also, if the lens FP drive speed is determined by the operating angle of an arbitrary ring, the maximum speed of the lens FP speed may be set. The lens FP settings are stored in the memory (not shown) of the interchangeable lens 100 by the lens microcontroller 101. If the memory is non-volatile memory and can retain data even after the power to the interchangeable lens 100 is cut off, the data stored in the non-volatile memory may be used as the initial lens FP settings in this step. Once the initialization process in this step is complete, the process transitions to step S201 to start the steady-state processing of the lens FP function.

[0031] In step S201, the lens microcontroller 101 determines whether the lens FP registration button 121 has been pressed. If it is determined that the lens FP registration button 121 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S202. On the other hand, if it is determined that the lens FP registration button 121 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S203. In step S202, the lens microcontroller 101 sets the current focus lens position, which can be obtained via the control circuit 108, as the lens FP position, and then proceeds to step S203.

[0032] In step S203, the lens microcontroller 101 determines whether the lens FP drive button 122 has been pressed. If it is determined that the lens FP drive button 122 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S204. On the other hand, if it is determined that the lens FP drive button 122 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S205. In step S204, the lens microcontroller 101 drives the focus lens 109 via the control circuit 108 based on the lens FP setting, such as the lens FP position or lens FP speed, and proceeds to step S205. As a modification of this embodiment, for example, the FP drive may be started by operating an arbitrary ring (not shown) on the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, the lens microcontroller 101 may determine in step S203 whether the ring has been operated, and in step S204, it may determine the drive speed of the focus lens 109 based on the operating angle of the ring.

[0033] In step S205, the lens microcomputer 101 determines whether to continue the steady processing of the lens FP function. If it is determined to continue the steady processing of the lens FP function, the process returns to step S201. For example, when the lens microcomputer 101 transitions to the sleep state based on a request from the camera microcomputer 201, etc., the steady processing of the lens FP function ends, and thus the process transitions to step S206 to end this flow. Also, when ending this flow, if the lens FP position is set in step S202, the lens FP position may be stored in the non-volatile memory so that it is initialized at the set lens FP position when the lens microcomputer 101 is started next time. Alternatively, the lens FP position may be stored in the non-volatile memory when setting the lens FP position in step S202.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 3, the operation of the initial setting of the lens FP function of the interchangeable lens 100 in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the initial setting of the lens FP function. In FIG. 3, the focus lens 109 can move within a range from the infinity end (inf301) to the closest end (near302), and it shows that the lens FP position 303 is initially set to inf301 in step S200 of FIG. 2. Assume that the current position of the focus lens 109 is at the current position 304. Here, if the user presses the lens FP drive button 122 without pressing the lens FP registration button 121, the process of step S204 starts, and the focus lens 109 moves to the lens FP position 303, that is, inf301 which is the initial setting (305).

[0035] <Imaging device with FP function> Next, the camera body (imaging device) 200 having the FP function in this embodiment will be described. The camera body 200 has a camera operation unit 210 as a member for the user to operate the FP function (camera FP function, second function) of the camera body 200. The camera FP function is a function that can request the interchangeable lens (accessory device) 100 to drive the focus lens 109 to a preset second focus position.

[0036] The camera operation unit 210 has a camera FP registration button 211 for registering FPs and a camera FP drive button 212 for instructing the start of FP driving. However, the components for operating the camera FP function are not limited to these. For example, the camera FP function may be operated by selecting a menu or UI displayed on the display unit 207 of the camera body 200.

[0037] Next, with reference to Figure 4, the processing of the camera FP function of the camera body 200 in this embodiment will be described. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the processing of the camera FP function. This flow starts when the camera microcontroller 201 is started.

[0038] First, in step S400, the camera microcontroller 201 performs a process to initialize the settings (camera FP settings) necessary to control the camera FP function. In this embodiment, the initial setting (initial camera FP position, second initial position information) of the FP position (camera FP position), which is one of the camera FP settings, is set to the infinity position (information indicating infinity) of the focus lens 109 of the interchangeable lens 100. In addition, the initial setting (initial camera FP speed, second initial speed information) of the drive speed (camera FP speed), which is another of the camera FP settings, is set to the maximum speed at which the focus lens 109 can be driven (maximum speed of focus drive speed). Note that the camera FP settings to be initialized and their settings are not limited to these. For example, the initial camera FP position may be set to the nearest end position, or the camera FP speed may be set to a limit speed considering the noise impact on video.

[0039] The camera FP settings are stored in the camera body 200's memory (not shown) by the camera microcontroller 201. If the memory is non-volatile and can retain data even after the power to the camera body 200 is cut off, the data stored in the memory may be used as the initial camera FP settings in this step. After the initialization process in this step is completed, the system transitions to step S401 to start the steady-state processing of the camera FP function.

[0040] In step S401, the camera microcontroller 201 obtains information regarding the FP function installed in the interchangeable lens 100 (lens FP installation information) from the lens microcontroller 101 via the camera communication unit 202, and then proceeds to step S402. The lens FP installation information includes, but is not limited to, information for the camera microcontroller 201 to determine whether or not the interchangeable lens 100 has an FP function. For example, the lens FP installation information may include information regarding the initial lens FP position, information regarding the initial lens FP speed, or information regarding the current lens FP setting.

[0041] In step S402, the camera microcontroller 201 resets the camera FP settings that were set in step S400 based on the lens FP mounting information acquired in step S401. A detailed explanation of the reset will be described later with reference to Figure 6. This step completes the initialization process for the camera FP function. After the initialization process is complete, the system transitions to step S403 to start the regular processing of the camera FP function.

[0042] In step S403, the camera microcontroller 201 determines whether the camera FP registration button 211 has been pressed. If it is determined that the camera FP registration button 211 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S404. On the other hand, if it is determined that the camera FP registration button 211 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S405. In step S404, the camera microcontroller 201 obtains the current focus lens position of the focus lens 109 of the interchangeable lens 100 via the camera communication unit 202, sets the current focus lens position to the camera FP position, and proceeds to step S405.

[0043] In step S405, the camera microcontroller 201 determines whether the camera FP drive button 212 has been pressed. If it is determined that the camera FP drive button 212 has been pressed, the process proceeds to step S406. On the other hand, if it is determined that the camera FP drive button 212 has not been pressed, the process proceeds to step S407.

[0044] In step S406, the camera microcontroller 201 requests the lens microcontroller 101 to drive the focus lens 109 via the camera communication unit 202, based on the camera FP setting, such as the camera FP position or camera FP speed, and then proceeds to step S407.

[0045] In step S407, the camera microcontroller 201 determines whether to continue the steady-state processing of the camera FP function. If it is determined to continue the steady-state processing of the camera FP function, the process returns to step S403. At this time, if the camera microcontroller 201 determines to transition to sleep mode, for example, if the power switch (not shown) of the camera body 200 is turned off, or if the camera body 200 has not been operated for a certain period of time, the steady-state processing of the camera FP function is terminated. For this reason, the process proceeds to step S408, and this flow ends. Also, when terminating this flow, if the camera FP position was set in step S404, the camera FP position may be stored in non-volatile memory so that the camera FP position is initialized to the set position the next time the camera microcontroller 201 is started. Alternatively, the camera FP position may be stored in non-volatile memory when setting the camera FP position in step S404.

[0046] Next, referring to FIG. 5, the operation of the initial setting of the camera FP function in the present embodiment for the camera body 200 will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the initial setting of the camera FP function. In FIG. 5, it is shown that the focus lens 109 of the interchangeable lens 100 can move within a range from the moving end on the infinity side (inf301) to the moving end on the closest side (near302). Also in FIG. 5, it is shown that the camera FP position 501 is initially set to inf301 in steps S400 to S402 of FIG. 4. Also, assume that the current position of the focus lens 109 is at the current position 502. Here, when the user presses the camera FP drive button 212 without pressing the camera FP registration button 211, the process of step S406 starts. Thereby, the focus lens 109 moves to the camera FP position 501, that is, inf301 which is the initial setting (503).

[0047] <Initial setting of FP position> FIG. 6 is a table showing combinations of initial settings of respective FP positions according to the presence or absence of the FP function mounted on the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 in the imaging system 10 in which both the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 in the present embodiment can be equipped with the FP function.

[0048] When neither the camera body 200 nor the interchangeable lens 100 is equipped with the FP function, the user cannot use the FP function, so there is no initial setting (60). When only the interchangeable lens 100 is equipped with the FP function, the lens FP position is initially set to the infinity end (61). When only the camera body 200 is equipped with the FP function, the camera FP position is initially set to the infinity end (62).

[0049] On the other hand, when both the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are equipped with the FP function, the lens FP position is initially set to the infinity end, and the camera FP position is initially set to the closest end (63). Thus, in the imaging system 10 of the present embodiment, the initial FP position of the lens and the initial FP position of the camera are different from each other.

[0050] In this embodiment, if the camera microcontroller 201 determines that the interchangeable lens 100 has an FP function based on the lens FP mounting information, it resets the camera FP position to the nearest end. As a result, the initial lens FP position and the initial camera FP are set to different positions (step S402 in Figure 4). However, the process of setting each initial FP position to a different position is not limited to this. For example, if the camera microcontroller 201 determines that the interchangeable lens 100 has an FP function based on the lens FP mounting information, it may reset the camera FP position to infinity. Alternatively, the camera microcontroller 201 may set the initial camera FP position to a position different from the initial lens FP position included in the lens FP mounting information. For example, if the data stored in the non-volatile memory is initialized as the camera FP setting in step S400, the camera FP setting does not need to be reset even if the interchangeable lens 100 has an FP function.

[0051] The camera FP settings are stored in the camera body 200's memory (not shown) by the camera microcontroller 201. If the memory is non-volatile and can retain data even after the power to the camera body 200 is cut off, the data stored in the non-volatile memory may be used as the initial camera FP settings in this step. After the initialization process in this step is completed, the system proceeds to step S401 to start the steady-state processing of the camera FP function.

[0052] Next, referring to Figure 7, the initial setup operation when both the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 in this embodiment are equipped with FP functionality will be described. Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the initial setup when the imaging system 10 has both lens FP functionality and camera FP functionality.

[0053] In FIG. 7, it is shown that the focus lens 109 of the interchangeable lens 100 can move within the range from the moving end on the infinity side (inf301) to the moving end on the closest side (near302). Also in FIG. 7, by the processes described referring to step S200, steps S400 to S402, and FIG. 6, it is shown that the lens FP position 701 is initially set to inf301 with respect to the focus lens 109, and the camera FP position 702 is initially set to near302. Also, the current position of the focus lens 109 is assumed to be at the current position 703.

[0054] Here, if the user presses the lens FP drive button 122 without pressing the lens FP registration button 121, the process of step S204 starts, and the focus lens 109 moves to the lens FP position 701, that is, to inf301 which is the initial setting (704). Also, if the user presses the camera FP drive button 212 without pressing the camera FP registration button 211, the process of step S406 starts. As a result, the focus lens 109 moves to the camera FP position 702, that is, to near302 which is the initial setting (705).

[0055] By the above-described initial setting operations, when the user wants to focus on the subject 706 on the infinity side, the user can use the lens FP function, and when the user wants to focus on the subject 705 on the closest side, the user can use the camera FP function. Therefore, it becomes possible to immediately switch the focus to the desired subject.

[0056] <Sequence of FP function> Next, referring to FIG. 8, the FP function processing of the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 in the imaging system 10 in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the sequence of the FP function of the imaging system 10. In the sequence of FIG. 8, the interchangeable lens 100 is controlled by the lens microcomputer 101, and the camera body 200 is controlled by the camera microcomputer 201. Regarding the processes already described referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] Processes 801 to 805 are initialization processes for the FP function of the imaging system 10 in this embodiment. Process 801 corresponds to step S200, process 802 to step S400, processes 803 and 804 to step S401, and process 805 to step S402 and the processes described with reference to Figure 6. Process 803 indicates that the camera microcontroller 201 sends a command to the lens microcontroller 101 via the camera communication unit 202 to request the transmission of lens FP mounting information. Process 804 indicates that the lens microcontroller 101, in response to receiving the command to send lens FP mounting information via the lens communication unit 102, transmits lens FP mounting information to the camera microcontroller 201 via the lens communication unit 102.

[0058] Processes 806 to 807 are processes for registering the lens FP function, which are started by pressing the lens FP registration button 121 of the imaging system 10, and correspond to step S202. Processes 808 to 809 are processes for driving the lens FP function, which are started by pressing the lens FP drive button 122 of the imaging system 10, and correspond to step S204.

[0059] Processes 810 to 813 are processes for registering the camera FP function, which are started by pressing the camera FP registration button 211 of the imaging system 10, and correspond to step S404. Process 810 indicates that the camera microcontroller 201 sends a command to the lens microcontroller 101 via the camera communication unit 202 to obtain the current focus lens position of the focus lens 109 to be registered as an FP. Process 811 indicates that the lens microcontroller 101 obtains the current focus lens position via the control circuit 108 in response to receiving the command to send focus lens position via the lens communication unit 102. Process 812 indicates that the lens microcontroller 101 transmits the obtained focus lens position to the camera microcontroller 201 via the lens communication unit 102.

[0060] Processes 814 to 816 are processes for driving the camera FP function, which are started by pressing the camera FP drive button 212 of the imaging system 10, and correspond to step S406. Process 815 indicates that the camera microcontroller 201 sends a focus drive request command to the lens microcontroller 101 via the camera communication unit 202 in order to move the focus lens 109 to the camera FP position based on the camera FP setting. At this time, if the focus lens 109 is being driven, a focus drive stop request command may be executed before the focus drive request command to improve the accuracy of stopping the FP drive. Subsequently, process 816 indicates that the lens microcontroller 101 controls the drive of the focus lens 109 via the control circuit 108 in response to receiving the focus drive request command via the lens communication unit 102.

[0061] According to this embodiment, in an imaging system in which both the imaging device and the accessory device can be equipped with FP functionality, it is possible to provide an imaging system in which the appropriate initial FP position setting is performed for each FP function according to the combination of the imaging device and the accessory device. This allows the user to avoid the hassle of changing FP settings and reduces the possibility of missing shooting opportunities. [Examples]

[0062] Embodiment 2 of the present invention relates to an imaging system in which both the imaging device and the accessory device can be equipped with FP functionality, and the initial FP speed setting of each is changed according to the combination of the imaging device and the accessory device. This embodiment differs from Embodiment 1 in that it changes the initial FP speed. The other configurations and processes of this embodiment are the same as those of Embodiment 1, so their description is omitted.

[0063] Each FP speed may be changeable based on user operations during the steady processing of each FP function. The method for changing the setting of the FP speed is not limited. For example, the camera FP speed may be changed by selecting a camera menu or entering a numerical value using the camera operation unit 210. Also, for example, the lens FP speed may be changed according to the operation of the lens operation unit 120. Also, the value that can be set for each FP speed may be either the driving speed ([pps]) or the driving time ([s]) to the FP position. When setting by the driving time to the FP position, immediately before the start of FP driving, the driving control of the focus lens 109 is performed based on the driving speed calculated based on the distance from the current position to the FP position and the driving time.

[0064] <Initial setting of FP speed> FIG. 9(a) is a table showing an example of a combination of initial settings of each FP speed according to the presence or absence of the FP function mounted on the camera body (imaging device) 200 and the interchangeable lens (accessory device) 100 in the imaging system of this embodiment.

[0065] When neither the camera body 200 nor the interchangeable lens 100 has the FP function (90), the user cannot use the FP function and thus has no initial setting. When only the interchangeable lens 100 has the FP function (91), the lens FP speed is set to vmax ([pps]). Similarly, when only the camera body 200 has the FP function (92), the camera FP speed is initially set to vmax ([pps]).

[0066] On the other hand, when both the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are equipped with FP functionality (93), the camera FP speed has different initial settings for each operating mode (still image shooting mode, video standby mode, video recording mode). In this case, the initial camera FP speed vmid ([pps]) in still image shooting mode is set to a speed less than or equal to the lens FP speed vmax. Also, the initial camera FP speed vmin1 ([pps]) in video standby mode is set to vmid or less. Also, the initial camera FP speed vmin2 ([pps]) in video recording mode (during video recording) is set to vmin1 or less.

[0067] In other words, each FP speed is in the relationship (vmax)≧(vmid)≧(vmin1)≧(vmin2). In this case, vmax is mainly for still image shooting and is preferably set to the highest speed at which the focus lens 109 can be driven, prioritizing responsiveness. For video shooting, vmin1 and vmin2 are preferably set to speeds that have little impact on video quality, based on the driving noise level and field of view variation of the focus lens 109. Furthermore, in video shooting mode, the drive speed transmitted by the focus drive request command via FP drive may be determined based on the focus information generated by the signal processing circuit 205 so as to be less than or equal to the set FP speeds (vmid, vmin1, vmin2).

[0068] Figure 9(b) is a table showing an example of initial setting combinations of each FP speed in this embodiment, different from those in Figure 9(a). Since 90, 91, and 92 are the same as in Figure 9(a), their explanation is omitted.

[0069] When both the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are equipped with FP functionality (94), the camera FP speed has different initial settings for each operating mode (still image shooting mode, video standby mode, video recording mode). In still image shooting mode, the initial camera FP speed vmid([pps]) is the same as in Figure 9(a), in that the lens FP speed is set to a speed less than or equal to vmax. In this case, the initial camera FP speed in video standby mode is set to tmin1([s]), which is the driving time to the FP position. Also, in video recording mode, the initial camera FP is tmin2([s]), which is the driving time to the FP position, and is set to be greater than or equal to tmin1.

[0070] In this way, by controlling the speed based on the drive time in video recording mode, users can easily perform imaging techniques called focus-in and focus-out, where the focus is shifted from the current position towards the FP position. Therefore, it is preferable to set tmin1 and tmin2 within a range of approximately 1 to 5 seconds.

[0071] As shown in Figures 9(a) and (b), by setting the FP speed for each component to the initial value, if only the interchangeable lens 100 or the camera body 200 is equipped with the FP function, the initial setting will prioritize responsiveness. On the other hand, if both the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 are equipped with the FP function, the initial settings will prioritize responsiveness and video quality, respectively. This provides the user with an imaging system that allows them to instantly switch between the FP functions depending on the shooting situation.

[0072] The method for initializing each FP speed in this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the camera FP speed may be initially set to be higher than the lens FP speed. Also, for example, the FP speed may be set based on the amount of focus change (amount of image plane movement), or based on the amount of angle of view change (amount of actual focal length change, amount of breathing). Furthermore, for example, the FP speed does not need to be constant during FP driving; for example, acceleration and deceleration control may be performed during FP driving, and the amount of acceleration and deceleration may be initially set as the setting for the FP speed.

[0073] Furthermore, if the initial FP speeds of each device are initially set to different speeds, as in this embodiment, the implementation of Embodiment 1 may be omitted, and the initial FP positions of each device may be made the same. Similarly, if the initial FP positions of each device are initially set to different positions, as in Embodiment 1, the implementation of Embodiment 2 may be omitted, and the initial FP speeds of each device may be made the same.

[0074] According to this embodiment, in an imaging system in which both the imaging device and the accessory device can be equipped with FP functionality, it is possible to provide an imaging system in which the initial FP speed setting is appropriate for each FP function depending on the combination of the imaging device and the accessory device. This allows the user to avoid the hassle of changing FP settings and reduces the possibility of missing shooting opportunities.

[0075] As a variation of each embodiment, the camera body 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 may be connected via an intermediate adapter, which is an accessory device that can be attached to the camera body 200. The intermediate adapter may also be equipped with an FP (Flash Function) function. In this case, the camera microcontroller 201 obtains information about the FP function of the intermediate adapter via the camera communication unit 202 and performs the initial setup of the camera FP function. That is, one or more accessory devices (at least one accessory device) are detachably connected to the camera body 200.

[0076] Furthermore, as a variation of each embodiment, the lens microcontroller 101 may receive information regarding the camera FP function installed in the camera body 200 (camera FP installation information) via the lens communication unit 102, and change the initial settings of the lens FP function based on the camera FP installation information. In that case, for example, in process 803, the camera microcontroller 201 transmits the camera FP installation information to the lens microcontroller 101 via the camera communication unit 202, and the lens microcontroller 101, having received the camera FP installation information, can reset the lens FP settings.

[0077] In the descriptions of each embodiment, "first" and "second" in terms such as "first function" and "second function," "first initial setting information" and "second initial setting information," "first initial position information" and "second initial position information," and "first initial speed information" and "second initial speed information" can be replaced as appropriate.

[0078] <Other examples> 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.

[0079] According to each embodiment, it is possible to provide an imaging device, an accessory device, a control method thereof, and a program that enable both the imaging device and the accessory device to be used in an imaging system having FP functionality, and that allow for appropriate initial setup of the FP functionality.

[0080] Each embodiment's disclosure includes the following configuration and method. (Composition 1) An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The imaging device is characterized in that the camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. (Configuration 2) The first initial setting information includes information on whether the accessory device has the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The imaging device according to configuration 1, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating infinity when the accessory device does not have the first function. (Composition 3) The first initial setting information includes information on whether the accessory device has the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The imaging apparatus according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that, when the accessory device has the first function, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating the nearest end. (Composition 4) The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information. (Composition 5) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 4, characterized in that, when the first initial position information indicates an infinite end, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating a nearest end. (Composition 6) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 4, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating the infinity end when the first initial position information indicates information indicating the nearest end. (Composition 7) It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging device according to any one of configurations 2 to 6, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 8) The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information. (Composition 9) The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The imaging device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information to be equal to or greater than the first initial speed information. (Composition 10) The camera control means is The second initial speed information corresponding to the video recording mode and the still image recording mode can be set. The imaging device according to configuration 8 or 9, characterized in that the second initial speed information in the video shooting mode is set to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information in the still image shooting mode. (Composition 11) The camera control means is The second initial speed information corresponding to the video standby mode and the video recording mode can be set. The imaging device according to any one of configurations 8 to 10, characterized in that the second initial speed information in the video recording mode is set to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information in the video standby mode. (Composition 12) It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 8 to 11, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 13) An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, It includes an accessory control means having a first function of driving the focus lens to a preset first focus position, The accessory communication means is characterized by transmitting first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of the first function to the imaging device. (Composition 14) The accessory device according to configuration 13, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes information on whether or not the accessory device has the first function. (Composition 15) The accessory device according to configuration 13 or 14, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position. (Composition 16) The accessory device according to configuration 15, characterized in that the first initial position information is information indicating an infinite end. (Composition 17) The accessory device according to configuration 15, characterized in that the first initial position information is information indicating the nearest end. (Composition 18) It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 15 to 17, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 19) The accessory device according to any one of configurations 13 to 18, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function. (Composition 20) The accessory device according to configuration 19, characterized in that the first initial speed information is information indicating the maximum speed of the focus drive speed. (Composition 21) It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to configuration 19 or 20, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 22) An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means is characterized in that it sets first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. (Composition 23) The second initial setting information includes information on whether the imaging device has the second function, The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The accessory device according to configuration 22, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to information indicating infinity when the imaging device does not have the second function. (Composition 24) The first initial setting information includes first initial position information which is the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes information on whether the imaging device has the second function, The accessory device according to configuration 22 or 23, characterized in that, if the imaging device does not have the second function, the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to information indicating the nearest end. (Composition 25) The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 22 to 24, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to be different from the second initial position information. (Composition 26) The accessory device according to configuration 25, characterized in that, when the second initial position information indicates an infinite end, the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to information indicating a nearest end. (Composition 27) The accessory device according to configuration 25, characterized in that when the accessory control means is information indicating the nearest end, the first initial position information is set to information indicating the infinite end. (Composition 28) It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 23 to 27, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 29) The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 22 to 28, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial speed information to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information. (Composition 30) The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 22 to 28, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial speed information to be equal to or greater than the second initial speed information. (Composition 31) The accessory control means is The imaging device receives information indicating whether it is in still image shooting mode or video shooting mode. The first initial speed information corresponding to the video recording mode and the still image recording mode can be set. The accessory device according to configuration 29 or 30, characterized in that the first initial speed information in the video shooting mode is set to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information in the still image shooting mode. (Composition 32) The accessory control means is The imaging device receives information indicating whether the video shooting mode is video standby mode or video recording mode. The first initial speed information corresponding to the video standby mode and the video recording mode can be set, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 29 to 31, characterized in that the first initial speed information in the video recording mode is set to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information in the video standby mode. (Composition 33) It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to any one of configurations 29 to 32, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 34) An imaging device to which multiple accessory devices are detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera control means has a first function of driving the focus lens of the accessory device to a preset first focus position, The imaging device is characterized in that the camera communication means transmits first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of the first function to the accessory device. (Composition 35) The imaging device according to configuration 34, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes information on whether or not the imaging device has the first function. (Composition 36) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 34 or 35, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position. (Composition 37) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 36, characterized in that the first initial position information is information indicating the infinite end. (Composition 38) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 36, characterized in that the first initial position information is information indicating the nearest end. (Composition 39) It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 36 to 38, characterized in that the camera control means sets the first initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Composition 40) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 34 to 39, characterized in that the first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function. (Composition 41) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 40, characterized in that the first initial speed information is information indicating the maximum speed of the focus drive speed. (Composition 42) It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging apparatus according to configuration 40 or 41, characterized in that the camera control means sets the first initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means. (Method 1) A control method for an imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A receiving step in which a camera communication means capable of communicating with the accessory device receives from the accessory device first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, The camera communication means includes a request step of requesting the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position using a second function, A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that, in the request step, a second initial setting information relating to the initial setting of the second function is set based on the first initial setting information such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. (Method 2) A method for controlling an accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, A step of transmitting first initial setting information regarding the initial setting of the first function to the imaging device, A control method for an accessory device, characterized by comprising the step of driving a focus lens to a preset first focus position using the first function. (Composition 43) A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method of the imaging device described in Method 1. (Composition 44) A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method for the accessory device described in Method 2.

[0081] 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 essence. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 100 interchangeable lenses (accessory device) 200 Camera body (imaging device) 201 Camera microcontroller (camera control means) 202 Camera Communication Unit (Camera Communication Method)

Claims

1. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes information on whether the accessory device has the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The imaging device is characterized in that, if the accessory device does not have the first function, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating infinity.

2. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes information on whether the accessory device has the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The imaging device is characterized in that, when the accessory device has the first function, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating the nearest end.

3. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, when the first initial position information indicates an infinite end, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating a nearest end.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, when the first initial position information indicates the nearest end, the camera control means sets the second initial position information to information indicating the infinite end.

6. It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means.

7. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, The camera control means sets the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information, The imaging device is characterized in that, when the first initial position information indicates an infinite end, the second initial position information is set to information indicating a nearest end.

8. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, The camera control means sets the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information, The imaging device is characterized in that, when the first initial position information indicates the nearest end, the second initial position information is set to information indicating the infinite end.

9. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The imaging device is characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information.

10. An imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A camera communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned accessory device, The camera communication means is capable of receiving first initial setting information from the accessory device regarding the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the camera control means has a second function that allows the camera communication means to request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position. The camera control means sets second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function based on the first initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The imaging device is characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information to be equal to or greater than the first initial speed information.

11. The camera control means is The second initial speed information corresponding to the video recording mode and the still image recording mode can be set. The imaging device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the second initial speed information in the video shooting mode is set to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information in the still image shooting mode.

12. The camera control means is The second initial speed information corresponding to the video standby mode and the video recording mode can be set. The imaging device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the second initial speed information in the video recording mode is set to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information in the video standby mode.

13. It further has user-operable means of operation, The imaging apparatus according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the camera control means sets the second initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means.

14. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The second initial setting information includes information on whether the imaging device has the second function, The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The accessory control means is characterized in that, if the imaging device does not have the second function, the first initial position information is set to information indicating infinity.

15. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information which is the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes information on whether the imaging device has the second function, The accessory control means is characterized in that, when the imaging device does not have the second function, the first initial position information is set to information indicating the nearest end.

16. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The accessory device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to be different from the second initial position information.

17. The accessory device according to claim 16, characterized in that when the second initial position information indicates an infinite end, the accessory control means sets the first initial position information to information indicating a nearest end.

18. The accessory device according to claim 16, characterized in that when the accessory control means is information indicating the nearest end, the first initial position information is set to information indicating the infinite end.

19. It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial position information in response to user operation of the operating means.

20. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The accessory control means sets the first initial position information to be different from the second initial position information, The accessory control means is characterized in that, when the second initial position information indicates an infinite end, the first initial position information is set to information indicating a nearest end.

21. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial setting of the second focus position, The accessory control means sets the first initial position information to be different from the second initial position information, The accessory control means is characterized in that, when the second initial position information indicates the nearest end, the first initial position information is set to information indicating the infinite end.

22. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The accessory control means is characterized by setting the first initial speed information to be less than or equal to the second initial speed information.

23. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, An accessory communication means capable of communicating with the aforementioned imaging device, The accessory control means has a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, and the accessory control means is capable of receiving second initial setting information from the imaging device regarding the initial setting of the second function that drives the focus lens to a preset second focus position via the accessory communication means. The accessory control means sets first initial setting information for the initial setting of the first function based on the second initial setting information, such that it differs from at least a part of the second initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the first function, The second initial setting information includes second initial speed information relating to the initial setting of the focus drive speed of the second function, The accessory control means is characterized by setting the first initial speed information to be equal to or greater than the second initial speed information.

24. The accessory control means is The imaging device receives information indicating whether it is in still image shooting mode or video shooting mode. The first initial speed information corresponding to the video recording mode and the still image recording mode can be set. The accessory device according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the first initial speed information in the video shooting mode is set to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information in the still image shooting mode.

25. The accessory control means is The imaging device receives information indicating whether the video shooting mode is video standby mode or video recording mode. The first initial speed information corresponding to the video standby mode and the video recording mode can be set, The accessory device according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the first initial speed information in the video recording mode is set to be less than or equal to the first initial speed information in the video standby mode.

26. It further has user-operable means of operation, The accessory device according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the accessory control means sets the first initial speed information in response to user operation of the operating means.

27. An imaging device that is detachably connected to an accessory device, In a state where it is connected to an accessory device having a first function of driving the focus lens to a preset first focus position, it has a control means having a second function that can request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position, The initial setting for driving the focus lens of the second function differs in at least part from the initial setting for driving the focus lens of the first function. The initial setting of the drive speed of the focus lens for the first function and the initial setting of the drive speed of the focus lens for the second function are different. An imaging device characterized in that the initial setting of the drive speed in the video mode of the focus lens of the first function and the initial setting of the drive speed in the video mode of the focus lens of the second function are different.

28. The imaging apparatus according to claim 26, characterized in that the initial setting of the first focus position and the initial setting of the second focus position are different.

29. An imaging device that is detachably connected to an accessory device, In a state where it is connected to an accessory device having a first function of driving the focus lens to a preset first focus position, it has a control means having a second function that can request the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position, The initial setting for driving the focus lens of the second function differs in at least part from the initial setting for driving the focus lens of the first function. The imaging apparatus is characterized in that the control means changes the initial setting of the drive speed of the focus lens for the second function depending on whether the connected accessory device has the first function.

30. An accessory device that is detachably connected to an imaging device, A control means having a first function of driving the focus lens to a preset first focus position, The system is connected to an imaging device having a second function capable of requesting that the focus lens be driven to a preset second focus position, and includes receiving means for receiving information from the imaging device indicating the initial settings for the second function of driving the focus lens. The initial setting for driving the focus lens of the first function differs from, at least in part from, the initial setting for driving the focus lens of the second function. An accessory device characterized in that the initial setting of the drive speed in the video mode of the focus lens of the first function and the initial setting of the drive speed in the video mode of the focus lens of the second function are different.

31. The imaging apparatus according to claim 30, characterized in that the initial setting of the first focus position and the initial setting of the second focus position are different.

32. A control method for an imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A receiving step in which a camera communication means capable of communicating with the accessory device receives from the accessory device first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, The camera communication means includes a request step of requesting the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position using a second function, In the request step, based on the first initial setting information, second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function is set such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, In the above request step, set the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information, A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that, in the request step, if the first initial position information is information indicating the infinite end, the second initial position information is set to information indicating the nearest end.

33. A method for controlling an imaging device to which at least one accessory device is detachably connected, A receiving step in which a camera communication means capable of communicating with the accessory device receives from the accessory device first initial setting information relating to the initial setting of a first function that drives the focus lens to a preset first focus position, The camera communication means includes a request step of requesting the accessory device to drive the focus lens to a preset second focus position using a second function, In the request step, based on the first initial setting information, second initial setting information for the initial setting of the second function is set such that it differs from at least a part of the first initial setting information. The first initial setting information includes first initial position information relating to the initial setting of the first focus position, The second initial setting information includes second initial position information relating to the initial position of the second focus position, In the above request step, set the second initial position information to be different from the first initial position information, A control method for an imaging device, characterized in that, in the request step, if the first initial position information is information indicating the nearest end, the second initial position information is set to information indicating the infinite end.

34. A program characterized by causing a computer to execute the control method for the imaging device described in claim 32 or 33.

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