Accessories and imaging systems equipped therewith

Abstract

To provide an accessory that allows a user to easily identify operating members, and a camera system including the same.SOLUTION: An accessory comprises: a first lens unit that moves in an optical axis direction in focusing or zooming; a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the optical axis direction; and a second operating member for changing a first parameter that is selected from a plurality of parameters different from a parameter changeable in focusing and zooming. A material of a surface of the first operating member is a material that is more easily elastically deformed than a material of a surface of the second operating member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an accessory and an imaging system including the same.

Background Art

[0002] As a lens apparatus including, in addition to a zoom ring and a focus ring, a third operation ring whose function can be changed, the lens apparatus described in Patent Document 1 is known. In the lens apparatus of Patent Document 1, a zoom operation ring, a focus operation ring, and a custom operation ring are provided in this order from the camera body side. Any one of an aperture value changing function, a shutter speed changing function, an exposure correction function, and a continuous shooting speed adjusting function can be assigned to this custom operation ring.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Literature 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Patent Document 1 does not explicitly specify the surface structures of the custom operation ring and the other operation rings. When the surface structures of the respective operation rings are the same, it becomes difficult for a user to distinguish between these operation rings.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an accessory that allows easy identification of operation members, and an imaging system including the same.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] As one aspect of achieving the above objective, the accessory comprises a first lens unit that moves in the optical axis direction during focusing or zooming, a first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the optical axis direction, and a second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a plurality of parameters different from the parameters that can be changed during focusing and zooming. The surface of the first operating member is provided with a flat groove structure, and the surface of the second operating member is provided with a mesh groove structure. The material on the surface of the first operating member is characterized by being more elastically deformable than the material on the surface of the second operating member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an accessory that makes it easy to identify the operating member, and an imaging system equipped therewith. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Block diagram of camera system (imaging system) 300 [Figure 2A] External view of the first interchangeable lens 100A in a first direction view. [Figure 2B] External view of the first interchangeable lens 100A in a second viewing direction. [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of the external appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A. [Figure 4A] A schematic first cross-sectional view showing the shapes of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108. [Figure 4B] A schematic second cross-sectional view showing the shapes of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108. [Figure 5A] External view of the second interchangeable lens 100B in the first direction view. [Figure 5B] External view of the second interchangeable lens 100B in the second direction view. [Figure 6A] External view of the third interchangeable lens 100C in the first direction. [Figure 6B] External view of the third interchangeable lens 100C in the second direction. [Figure 7A]External view of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D in the first direction view. [Figure 7B] External view of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D in the second viewing direction. [Figure 8] Schematic diagram of camera system 300A including adapter 400. [Figure 9] External view of Adapter 400 [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0010] (Camera system block configuration) First, the block configuration of the interchangeable lens 100 and camera body (camera body) 200 in an embodiment of the present invention will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a block diagram of a camera system 300 comprising an interchangeable lens (optical instrument, accessory, lens device) 100 and a camera body 200.

[0011] (Camera body block configuration) The camera body 200 includes an imaging means 202 which is a photoelectric conversion element or image sensor that includes a CCD or CMOS and converts the optical information of a subject obtained via the interchangeable lens 100 into an electrical signal (performing photoelectric conversion of the subject image). The camera body 200 further includes a camera mount (first mount part) 201 which is coupled to the lens mount (second mount part) 101 on the interchangeable lens 100 side, and a camera housing 205 which holds the imaging means 202 and the like.

[0012] In addition to the imaging means 202 and the camera mount 201, the camera body 200 further includes a camera communication means that communicates with a lens communication means on the interchangeable lens 100 side, a photometry means that performs photometry, a distance measurement means that performs distance measurement, and a recording device that records data such as captured still image and video data. The camera body 200 further includes a setting means for setting shooting conditions such as shutter speed, a user-operable release means (shutter button), a display means for displaying various information to a user, and a power source. Further, the camera body 200 includes a camera CPU, which is a control means for controlling the imaging means 202 and the like.

[0013] (Block configuration of interchangeable lens) The interchangeable lens 100 is attachable to and detachable from the camera body 200. The interchangeable lens 100 includes a lens barrel 102 and a lens mount (camera accessory mount) 101. Electrical communication between the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera body 200 is performed by a lens communication means and a camera communication means that are provided with a plurality of electrical contact portions that can be electrically connected to the counterpart device. Various types of information such as power supply information and control information can be exchanged (transmitted and received) between the camera CPU and the lens CPU.

[0014] In addition to the lens mount 101, the interchangeable lens 100 includes a zooming lens unit ZLU that moves during zooming, a focusing lens unit FLU that moves during focusing, and a shift lens unit SLU that moves for image stabilization. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes a lens unit LU other than the zooming lens unit ZLU, the focusing lens unit FLU, and the shift lens unit SLU, an aperture unit DU, and an ND filter NDF. The lens included in each lens unit referred to herein may be one lens or a plurality of lenses.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 100 further includes zoom drive means for driving the zooming lens unit ZLU, focus drive means for driving the focusing lens unit FLU, and aperture drive means for driving the aperture unit DU. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes ND drive means for driving the ND filter NDF, and vibration damping drive means for driving the shift lens unit SLU. The interchangeable lens 100 further includes lens communication means and a lens CPU as a control means for controlling the lens communication means and each of the aforementioned drive means.

[0016] In Figure 1, the interchangeable lens 100 is a zoom lens equipped with a zooming lens unit ZLU, but the interchangeable lens 100 may also be a prime lens without a zooming lens unit ZLU. Furthermore, the interchangeable lens 100 may also be configured without a shift lens unit SLU. The interchangeable lens 100 only needs to be able to be directly attached to the camera body 200 without the need for an adapter.

[0017] (First embodiment) Next, the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and also an accessory of the first embodiment of the present invention, will be described using Figures 2, 3, and 4. Figure 2 shows the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A, with Figure 2A being an external view of the first interchangeable lens 100A in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Figure 2B is an external view of the first interchangeable lens 100A in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the appearance of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0018] In Figure 2, 103 is a focus operation ring (first operating member) for moving the focusing lens unit FLU in a direction parallel to the optical axis O (in the direction of the optical axis).

[0019] 104 is a custom operating ring (second operating member) capable of performing either a first function or a second function that is different from focusing. In other words, it is possible to assign either a first function or a second function that is different from focusing to the custom operating ring 104.

[0020] The display means, which is the touch display of the camera body 200 as shown in Figure 1 above, can display buttons corresponding to multiple functions that can be assigned to the custom operation ring 104. Then, the function corresponding to the button touched by the user from among the multiple function buttons displayed on the display means is assigned to the custom operation ring 104. In other words, the touch display of the camera body 200 is both a display means (display unit) and a selection means (selection unit). The selection of a function to be assigned to the custom operation ring 104 is not limited to the above means. The interchangeable lens 100 may be provided with a switch or touch display as a selection means for selecting a function to be assigned to the custom operation ring 104. Alternatively, the camera body 200 may be provided with a selection means separate from the touch display.

[0021] The first and second functions that can be assigned to the custom control ring 104 are as follows: any two of the following: a function to adjust (change) parameters related to shooting conditions such as aperture value, white balance, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and exposure value, and a function to switch between manual focus and autofocus. In addition to the first and second functions, a third and fourth function may also be assigned to the custom control ring 104.

[0022] (A configuration to create an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operating components) As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the surface of the focus operation ring 103 is provided with a flat groove structure (first structure, vertical rib structure), and the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a diamond-pattern groove structure (second structure, mesh groove structure). In other words, the surface of the custom operation ring 104 has a different structure from the surface of the focus operation ring 103. This makes it possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operating members. The flat groove structure referred to here is a structure having multiple grooves 1031 parallel to the optical axis direction, as shown in Figure 3. Alternatively, the flat groove structure refers to a structure with flat knurling. The diamond-pattern groove structure refers to a structure having multiple grooves 1041 that intersect (are inclined) with respect to the optical axis direction, as shown in Figure 3. Alternatively, the diamond-pattern groove structure refers to a structure with diamond knurling.

[0023] (Other configurations) In the structure provided on the surface of the custom operating ring 104, the portion 1042 surrounded by a total of four grooves 1041 has a square pyramidal shape with a rhombic base. This makes the tactile feel of the surface of the focus operating ring 103 and the surface of the custom operating ring 104 different from each other, making it easier to distinguish between the two operating components.

[0024] The surface material of the focus control ring 103 is different from the surface material of the custom control ring 104. In addition to the aforementioned difference in surface structure, there is also a difference in tactile feel between the focus control ring 103 and the custom control ring 104, making it easier for the user to distinguish between the two control components.

[0025] More specifically, since the focus control ring 103 has a rubber ring, the surface material of the focus control ring 103 is rubber. And since the custom control ring 104 has an injection-molded plastic ring-shaped member, the surface material of the custom control ring 104 is less elastically deformable than the surface material of the focus control ring 103. In other words, the surface material of the focus control ring 103 is more elastically deformable than the surface material of the custom control ring 104. This is because making the surface material of the focus control ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom control ring 104, softer reduces the burden on the user while making the two control members easier to distinguish.

[0026] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the width of the focus control ring 103 in the optical axis direction is greater than the width of the custom control ring 104 in the optical axis direction. Because there is a difference in size between the focus control ring 103 and the custom control ring 104, it becomes easier for the user to distinguish between the two control components. Also, by making the focus control ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom control ring 104, larger, operability can be ensured while making the two control components easier to distinguish.

[0027] Furthermore, the custom control ring 104 is positioned closer to the object (subject) than the focus control ring 103. In other words, the focus control ring 103 is positioned closer to the image (image sensor) than the custom control ring 104. The reason for this arrangement is to make it easier to operate the focus control ring 103, which is used more frequently than the custom control ring 104, by positioning it closer to the user's hand.

[0028] 105 is an intermediate tube located between the focus control ring 103 and the custom control ring 104. The rotation of the intermediate tube 105 is restricted, and it cannot rotate around the optical axis O (around the optical axis). Let's consider the case where there is no intermediate tube 105 and the focus control ring 103 and the custom control ring 104 are located close together. In this case, the user's fingers are more likely to come into contact with both the focus control ring 103 and the custom control ring 104, increasing the likelihood of both control rings being operated simultaneously. In contrast, by providing an intermediate tube 105, as in the first interchangeable lens 100A, the possibility of both control rings being operated simultaneously can be reduced.

[0029] The intermediate tube 105 may be rotatable around the optical axis O, but it is preferable that its rotation is restricted, as is the case with the first interchangeable lens 100A. This is because if there is a component other than the operating ring that can rotate around the optical axis O, the user may mistakenly perceive that component as the operating ring.

[0030] Preferably, the surface structure of the intermediate tube 105 is different from that of both the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, the surface of the intermediate tube 105 does not have a groove structure. This makes the intermediate tube 105 a kind of boundary, and it becomes clearer that the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 are separate operation rings.

[0031] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the width of the intermediate tube 105 in the optical axis direction is smaller than the width of the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 in the optical axis direction. This makes it possible to maintain the width of the focus operation ring 103 and the custom operation ring 104 in the optical axis direction while suppressing an increase in the overall length of the first interchangeable lens 100A in the optical axis direction.

[0032] 1061 is a first annular member located on the object side of the custom operating ring 104, and 1062 is a second annular member located on the object side of the first annular member. The first annular member 1061 and the second annular member 1062 may be collectively referred to as the annular member. Both the first annular member 1061 and the second annular member 1062 are restricted from rotating around the optical axis O.

[0033] The surface color of the first annular member 1061 is different from the surface color of both the second annular member 1062 and the custom operating ring 104. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, the surface color of the first annular member 1061 is red. The first annular member 1061 functions as an indicator member that indicates that the interchangeable lens having the first annular member 1061 is a particular interchangeable lens, that is, an indicator member that indicates the type of accessory. In other words, the first annular member 1061 is provided with a type indicator that indicates the type of accessory.

[0034] The second annular member 1062 is provided with a cap mounting indicator (first mounting indicator) 1091 for attaching a cap or the like to protect the front surface of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0035] Preferably, of the first annular member 1061 and the second annular member 1062, at least the second annular member 1062 is made of a material other than metal, i.e., plastic (resin). Of course, it is preferable that both are made of a material other than metal. This is because it is possible to reduce the amount of static electricity that enters the interior from the tip of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0036] 107 is a first exterior member (first exterior part), and 108 is a second exterior member (second exterior part) that is at least partially exposed from the first exterior member 107. The second exterior member 108 is provided with a lens mounting indicator (second indicator) 1092 for attaching the first interchangeable lens 100A to the camera body 200. By aligning the phase of the lens mounting indicator 1092 with the indicator on the camera body 200, it becomes easier to insert the multiple bayonet claws of the lens mount 101 into the notches between the multiple bayonet claws of the camera mount 201.

[0037] Even when the first interchangeable lens 100A is attached to the camera body 200, a portion of the second exterior component 108 is exposed from the first exterior component 107. Furthermore, the surface color of the second exterior component 108 is different from the surface color of the first exterior component 107; in the case of the first interchangeable lens 100A, the surface of the second exterior component 108 is silver (metallic surface color), while the surface color of the first exterior component 107 is black.

[0038] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the image-side end of the first exterior member 107 has a first wall portion 1071 and a second wall portion 1072 that is recessed more than the first wall portion 1071. In other words, the end face of the first wall portion 1071 protrudes toward the image side more than the end face of the second wall portion 1072. Alternatively, it can be considered that a portion of the image-side end of the first exterior member 107 is cut off. In this case, the wall portion having the same phase and circumferential width as the cut-off portion is the second wall portion 1072, and the remaining uncut portion becomes the first wall portion 1071.

[0039] Because the first exterior member 107 comprises a first wall portion 1071 and a second wall portion 1072, the shape of the portion of the second exterior member 108 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107 differs depending on the direction in which the first interchangeable lens 100A is viewed.

[0040] In other words, the shape of the surface of the second exterior member 108 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107 in the first viewing direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction shown in Figure 2A is defined as the first exposed shape. Then, the shape of the surface of the second exterior member 108 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107 in the second viewing direction perpendicular to the optical axis direction and different from the first direction shown in Figure 2B is defined as the second exposed shape. In this case, the shape of the first exterior member 107 can be said to be such that the first exposed shape and the second exposed shape are different from each other. This makes it easier to determine the circumferential orientation of the first interchangeable lens 100A.

[0041] For example, if the first interchangeable lens 100A mounted on the camera body 200 is in its normal state when viewed from the side, then it becomes easier to determine whether the first interchangeable lens 100A is in its normal state based on the difference in the exposed shape of the second exterior component 108. More specifically, when the first interchangeable lens 100A mounted on the camera body 200 is viewed from the side, it appears as shown in Figure 2B. In other words, if the first interchangeable lens 100A appears as shown in Figure 2B when viewed from the side, it can be determined that the first interchangeable lens 100A is in its normal state. Here, "normal state" refers to the state in which the shutter button of the camera body 200 is facing upwards, and the state of the interchangeable lens 100 mounted on the camera body 200 in that state.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2B, in the second viewing direction, a predetermined straight line L1 parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the lens mounting indicator 1092 and a part of the second wall portion 1072. In other words, the straight line L1 passes through a part of the recess between a part of the lens mounting indicator 1092 and a part of the first wall portion 1071. To put it another way, in the second viewing direction, the lens mounting indicator 1092 is provided on the surface of the second exterior member 108, specifically on the portion 1081 that is exposed from the first exterior member 107 and has a wider width in the optical axis direction than the other portions. This allows the lens mounting indicator 1092 to be a large and conspicuous indicator. In the first interchangeable lens 100A, the lens mounting indicator 1092 has a shape in which the width in the optical axis direction is greater.

[0043] A portion of the first exterior component 107 forms a switch base 112 for holding switches 110 and 111. 110 is a focus mode setting switch (focus mode switching unit, first switching unit) for switching between autofocus mode and manual focus mode. 111 is a shooting distance range setting switch for switching between shooting distance ranges.

[0044] The focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 are located on the image side of the focus operation ring 103. In other words, the focus operation ring 103 is located between the custom operation ring 104 and the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2B, in the second viewing direction, the straight line L2, which is parallel to the optical axis O and passes through a part of the focus mode setting switch 110, also passes through a part of the second wall 1072. Furthermore, the straight line L3, which is parallel to the optical axis O and passes through a part of the shooting distance range setting switch 111, also passes through a part of the second wall 1072. In other words, the phase of the second wall 1072 and the phase of the focus mode setting switches 110 and 111 are approximately in sync. For example, consider a case where the positions of the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 are difficult to see, such as when shooting at night. In this case, for example, by touching the thumb of the left hand to the recess between the first wall 1071 and then moving the left hand forward, the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 can be easily operated with the left hand. Furthermore, in the second viewing direction, the interchangeable lens 100 is configured such that a predetermined straight line parallel to the optical axis O passes through a part of the switch base 112 and a part of the second wall 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall 1071).

[0046] As shown in Figure 1, the interchangeable lens 100 is equipped with a click mechanism (click sensation generating mechanism). This click mechanism can generate a click sensation when operating the custom operation ring 104. In other words, when operating the focus operation ring 103 with the first interchangeable lens 100A, no click sensation is generated, but when operating the custom operation ring 104, a click sensation is generated by the click mechanism. This makes it possible to distinguish between the two operation rings by the difference in the operating sensation. The click mechanism is composed of, for example, a plurality of grooves provided on the inner circumference of the custom operation ring 104, an elastic member, and a pin member biased by the elastic member relative to the grooves.

[0047] The first wall portion 1071 and the second wall portion 1072 will be explained in more detail using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the image-side end of the first exterior member 107 and the cross-section of the second exterior member 108. Figure 4A is a schematic partial cross-sectional view when the first interchangeable lens 100A is cut in the cross-section (first cross-section) parallel to the plane of the paper and passing through the optical axis O in Figure 2A. Figure 4B is a schematic partial cross-sectional view when the first interchangeable lens 100A is cut in the cross-section (second cross-section) parallel to the plane of the paper and passing through the optical axis O in Figure 2B.

[0048] As shown in Figure 4A, the second wall portion 1072 covers a part of the second exterior member 108 (near the end on the object side). As shown in Figure 4B, the first wall portion 1071 also covers a part of the second exterior member 108 (near the end on the object side). Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the surface area of ​​the second exterior member 108 covered by the first wall portion 1071 is larger than the surface area of ​​the second exterior member 108 covered by the second wall portion 1072.

[0049] (Second example) Next, the appearance of the second interchangeable lens 100B, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and also an accessory of the second embodiment of the present invention, will be described using Figure 5. Figure 5 shows the appearance of the second interchangeable lens 100B, where Figure 5A is an external view of the second interchangeable lens 100B in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Figure 5B is an external view of the second interchangeable lens 100B in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same function as the first interchangeable lens 100A described above are denoted by the same reference numerals as in Figure 2, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0050] In the second interchangeable lens 100B, the surface of the focus operation ring 103 is provided with a flat groove structure (first structure), and the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a diamond-pattern groove structure (second structure). Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0051] 120 is a zoom control ring (third operating member) for moving the zoom lens unit ZLU in the optical axis direction in Figure 1. The zoom control ring 120 is located closer to the image than the focus control ring 103. In other words, from the object side, the custom control ring 104, the focus control ring 103, and the zoom control ring 120 are arranged in that order.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the surface of the zoom operation ring 120 is provided with a flat groove structure, similar to the surface of the focus operation ring 103. However, the outer diameter shapes of the focus operation ring 103 and the zoom operation ring 120 are different. More specifically, the zoom operation ring 120 comprises a large diameter section 121, a small diameter section 123 with a smaller diameter than the large diameter section 121, and a connecting section 122 between the large diameter section 121 and the small diameter section 123. The surfaces of the large diameter section 121, the connecting section 122, and the small diameter section 123 are each provided with a flat groove structure. As a result, in the second interchangeable lens 100B, the three operation rings—the custom operation ring 104, the focus operation ring 103, and the zoom operation ring 120—are easily distinguishable.

[0053] In the second interchangeable lens 100B, operating the zoom operation ring 120 causes the lens retaining frame 130 to move in the direction of the optical axis. 113 is a lock switch (second switching part) that locks the operation of the zoom operation ring 120, preventing the lens retaining frame 130 from moving in the direction of the optical axis due to its own weight when not in use. As shown in Figure 5A, the straight line L4, which passes through a part of the lock switch 113 and is parallel to the optical axis O, passes through a part of the second wall 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall 1071). Therefore, like the focus mode setting switch 110 and the shooting distance range setting switch 111 mentioned above, the lock switch 113 is easy to find.

[0054] 114 is an IS switch for switching the image stabilization function on and off. As shown in Figure 5B, the line L5, which passes through a part of the IS switch 114 and is parallel to the optical axis O, passes through a part of the second wall 1072 (a part of the recess between the first wall 1071). Therefore, like the switches 110 and 111 mentioned above, the IS switch 114 is easy to find.

[0055] In the second interchangeable lens 100B, the cap mounting indicator 1091 is provided on the lens retaining frame 130, not on the second annular member 1062.

[0056] Furthermore, in the second interchangeable lens 100B, the focus mode setting switch 110, the lock switch 113, and the IS switching switch 114 are located on the image side of the zoom operation ring 120. The surface material of the zoom operation ring 120 is rubber, the same as the surface material of the focus operation ring 103.

[0057] (Third embodiment) Next, the appearance of the third interchangeable lens 100C, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and also an accessory of the third embodiment of the present invention, will be described using Figure 6. Figure 6 shows the appearance of the third interchangeable lens 100C, with Figure 6A being an external view of the third interchangeable lens 100C in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Figure 6B is an external view of the second interchangeable lens 100C in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same function as the first interchangeable lens 100A or the second interchangeable lens 100B described above are denoted by the same reference numerals as in Figures 2 or 5, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0058] In the third interchangeable lens 100C, the surface of the focus operation ring 103 is provided with a flat groove structure (first structure), and the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a diamond-pattern groove structure (second structure). Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0059] Similar to the second interchangeable lens 100B mentioned above, the third interchangeable lens 100C is equipped with a zoom operation ring 120. However, the position of the zoom operation ring 120 in the optical axis direction of the third interchangeable lens 100C is different from that of the second interchangeable lens 100B. Specifically, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the zoom operation ring 120 is located closer to the image than the focus mode setting switch 110. In other words, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the focus mode setting switch 110 is located between the focus operation ring 103 and the zoom operation ring 120.

[0060] By adopting the above configuration, even when the shapes of the focus control ring 103 and the zoom control ring 120 are similar, as in the third interchangeable lens 100C, it becomes easier to distinguish between the two using the focus mode setting switch 110 as the boundary. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the surface of the custom control ring 104 has a diamond-shaped groove structure that is different from the other control rings. In other words, even in the third interchangeable lens 100C, it is easier to distinguish between the three control rings: the custom control ring 104, the focus control ring 103, and the zoom control ring 120. In addition, in the third interchangeable lens 100C, the diameter of the custom control ring 104 is larger than the diameter of the zoom control ring 120. Therefore, it is easier to distinguish between the custom control ring 104 and the zoom control ring 120.

[0061] (Fourth embodiment) Next, the appearance of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D, which is one of the interchangeable lenses 100 and also an accessory of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, will be described using Figure 7. Figure 7 shows the appearance of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D, with Figure 7A being an external view of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis O. Figure 7B is an external view of the fourth interchangeable lens 100D in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis O and different from the first direction. Components having the same function as each of the interchangeable lenses described above are denoted by the same reference numerals as in Figures 2 or 5, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0062] Unlike the first, second, and third interchangeable lenses described above, the fourth interchangeable lens 100D has a third annular member 1063 instead of the first annular member 1061. Also, the cap mounting indicator 1091 is not provided. While the surface of the first annular member 1061 described above was red, the third annular member 1063 is a different color from red, for example, black or gray.

[0063] In the fourth interchangeable lens 100D, the surface of the focus operation ring 103 is provided with a flat groove structure (first structure), and the surface of the custom operation ring 104 is provided with a diamond-pattern groove structure (second structure). Therefore, in this embodiment as well, it is possible to realize an accessory that makes it easy to distinguish between the two operating members.

[0064] (Fifth example) Next, the adapter (accessory) 400, which is an accessory of the fifth embodiment of the present invention, will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the camera system 300A including the adapter 400, and Figure 9 is an external view of the adapter 400.

[0065] Each of the aforementioned interchangeable lenses 100A to 100D can be directly attached to the camera body 200 without the need for an adapter. The adapter 400 in this embodiment can also be directly attached to the camera body 200. As shown in Figure 8, the adapter 400 is an adapter that allows interchangeable lenses 500, which cannot be directly attached to the camera body 200, to be used in combination with the camera body 200.

[0066] As shown in Figure 9, the adapter 400 includes the aforementioned custom operating ring 104, lens mounting indicator 1092, and lens mount 101. Furthermore, it includes a locking pin 401 for insertion into a recess provided in the lens mount portion of the interchangeable lens 500, and a pin operating part 402 for moving the locking pin 401 forward and backward in the optical axis direction.

[0067] As shown in Figure 8, the interchangeable lens 500 is equipped with a focus operation ring 103 having a flat groove structure. And, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, the adapter 400 is equipped with a custom operation ring 104 having a diamond-shaped groove structure. Therefore, when taking pictures using the interchangeable lens 500, adapter 400, and camera body 200, the focus operation ring 103 on the interchangeable lens 500 and the custom operation ring 104 on the adapter 400 can be easily identified.

[0068] (modified version) Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of its essence.

[0069] Each of the interchangeable lenses in the first, second, and third embodiments described above has a second annular member 1062 and a first annular member 1061 which is an indicator member that shows the type of interchangeable lens. However, instead of the first annular member 1061, for example, a portion of the second annular member 1062 that is painted all around may be used as an indicator that shows the type of interchangeable lens.

[0070] Furthermore, the interchangeable lenses (accessories) in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above are made of different materials, comprising a first exterior member 107 and a second exterior member 108 with different surface colors. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, instead of the first exterior member 107 and the second exterior member 108, a single exterior member in which these exterior members are integrated may be used. In this case, the color of a first region on the surface of this single exterior member may be different from the color of a second region which is different from the first region. In other words, the interchangeable lenses (accessories) in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments only need to have the color of a first region on the surface of the exterior member and the color of a second region which is different from the first region which are different from the first region. In the interchangeable lenses in the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments, the first region corresponds to the surface region of the first exterior member 107, and the second region corresponds to the surface region of the second exterior member 108.

[0071] Furthermore, in the interchangeable lenses (accessories) of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above, the custom operation ring 104 is located closer to the object than the focus operation ring 103. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The custom operation ring 104 may be located closer to the image than the focus operation ring 103. Moreover, the custom operation ring 104 may be located closer to the image than the zoom operation ring 120.

[0072] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A first lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during focusing or zooming, A first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, It comprises a second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a plurality of parameters different from those that can be changed by focusing and zooming, The surface of the first operating member is provided with a flat groove structure, and the surface of the second operating member is provided with a mesh groove structure. The accessory is characterized in that the material on the surface of the first operating member is more elastically deformable than the material on the surface of the second operating member.

2. The accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that the second operating member is positioned closer to the object than the first operating member.

3. The first lens unit moves in the optical axis direction during focusing. The accessory according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a first switching unit for switching between autofocus mode and manual focus mode.

4. The accessory according to claim 3, characterized in that the first switching unit is positioned on the image side of the first operating member.

5. The accessory according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the first operating member is positioned between the second operating member and the first switching unit.

6. The accessory according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a second lens unit that moves in the optical axis direction during zooming, and a third operating member for moving the second lens unit in the optical axis direction.

7. The accessory according to claim 6, characterized in that the first switching section is provided between the first and third operating members.

8. The accessory according to claim 6, further comprising a second switching unit for switching whether or not to restrict the movement of the second lens unit in the optical axis direction.

9. The accessory according to claim 8, characterized in that the second switching unit is positioned closer to the image than the third operating member.

10. A first lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during focusing, A second lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during zooming, A first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, A second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a set of parameters different from those that can be changed by focusing and zooming, A third operating member for moving the second lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, A first switching unit for switching between autofocus mode and manual focus mode, The system includes a second switching unit for switching whether or not to restrict the movement of the second lens unit in the optical axis direction, The second switching unit is positioned closer to the image than the third operating member. The accessory is characterized in that the material on the surface of the first operating member is more elastically deformable than the material on the surface of the second operating member.

11. The accessory according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the first and second switching units are arranged on the same circumference.

12. A first lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during focusing, A second lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during zooming, A first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, A second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a set of parameters different from those that can be changed by focusing and zooming, A third operating member for moving the second lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, A first switching unit for switching between autofocus mode and manual focus mode, The system includes a second switching unit for switching whether or not to restrict the movement of the second lens unit in the optical axis direction, The first and second switching units are arranged on the same circumference. The accessory is characterized in that the material on the surface of the first operating member is more elastically deformable than the material on the surface of the second operating member.

13. The first lens unit moves in the optical axis direction during zooming, The accessory according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second switching unit for switching whether or not to restrict the movement of the first lens unit in the optical axis direction.

14. The accessory according to claim 13, characterized in that the second switching unit is positioned closer to the image than the first operating member.

15. The accessory according to claim 14, characterized in that the first operating member is disposed between the second operating member and the second switching unit.

16. A first lens unit that moves in the direction of the optical axis during zooming, A first operating member for moving the first lens unit in the direction of the optical axis, A second operating member for changing a first parameter selected from a set of parameters different from those that can be changed by focusing and zooming, The system includes a second switching unit for switching whether or not to restrict the movement of the first lens unit in the optical axis direction, The second switching unit is positioned closer to the image than the first operating member. The first operating member is positioned between the second operating member and the second switching unit. The accessory is characterized in that the material on the surface of the first operating member is more elastically deformable than the material on the surface of the second operating member.

17. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the width of the first operating member in the optical axis direction is wider than the width of the second operating member in the optical axis direction.

18. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the surface material of the first operating member is rubber, and the surface material of the second operating member is plastic.

19. The system further comprises an intermediate cylinder positioned between the first and second operating members, The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the first and second operating members are rotatable relative to the intermediate cylinder.

20. The accessory according to claim 19, characterized in that the width of the intermediate cylinder in the optical axis direction is narrower than the width of the first and second operating members in the optical axis direction.

21. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising a mechanism for generating a click sensation when operating the second operating member.

22. The accessory according to claim 21, characterized in that no clicking sensation occurs when the first operating member is operated.

23. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the plurality of parameters include at least one of aperture value, shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, and exposure value.

24. The accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that it is detachable from the imaging device.

25. The accessory according to claim 24, characterized in that the first parameter is selected from the plurality of parameters using selection means provided by the imaging device.

26. An imaging system comprising an accessory and an image sensor as described in any one of claims 1 to 23.

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