JP2013120214A - Imaging apparatus, program and camera body - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an imaging apparatus improved in usability when performing a shortening operation of a lens barrel.SOLUTION: The imaging apparatus includes: a lens barrel section for performing a shortening operation to shorten a length of the lens barrel in an optical axis direction from a first length in which a photograph ready state is made in the arrangement of an optical system in the lens barrel to a second length which is shortened in relation to the first length; a driving section for driving the shortening operation of the lens barrel section; an operation section capable of performing an operation to instruct the start for driving the shortening operation; an imaging section for exposing a subject light flux made incident via the lens barrel section to perform photographic processing; and a control section for controlling the imaging section and controlling the driving section when it is detected that the operation section is operated. The control section notifies control information showing which one of the exposure processing and the shortening operation is preferentially controlled when it is detected that the operation section is operated in a period during the photographic processing including the exposure processing for recording.

Description

  The present invention relates to an imaging device, a program, and a camera body.

An image pickup apparatus that performs an expansion operation to extend the lens barrel by extending the lens to a position where the image can be taken at the time of shooting, and performs a contraction operation to retract the lens to the storage position and to reduce the lens barrel at the time of non-photographing. is there.
In such an imaging apparatus, when an instruction for a process including a contraction cylinder operation such as power-off is being performed during the imaging process, the instruction is not accepted until the imaging process is completed. On the other hand, even during the photographing process, the instructed process is executed before the photographing process is completed, so that the lens is quickly retracted to the storage position and the lens barrel is contracted. There is also an apparatus (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

JP 2003-131304 A JP 2005-286497 A

However, the imaging apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 starts the contraction operation quickly by starting the contraction operation of the lens barrel before the recording process after the exposure process is completed. For this reason, for example, when the exposure process continues during moving image recording, this imaging apparatus may not be able to perform the contraction cylinder operation as quickly as possible even if there is an instruction for a process including the contraction cylinder operation. .
As described above, in the imaging apparatus, there is a problem in that it is not convenient for the user because there is a case where it is not known which operation is performed when an instruction for a process including the contraction cylinder operation is performed during the imaging process.
Patent Document 2 discloses an imaging apparatus that forcibly switches to a reproduction mode when a lens is removed in an interchangeable lens imaging apparatus. However, the image pickup apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2 forcibly switches the operation mode of the image pickup apparatus, and does not solve the above-described problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide an imaging apparatus, a program, and a camera body with improved usability when performing a contraction operation of a lens barrel. .

  The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problems. In the present invention, the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is set to a state in which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed. A lens barrel portion that performs a contracting cylinder operation to reduce the length from the length to a second length that is shortened with respect to the first length; and a drive unit that drives the contracting cylinder operation of the lens barrel portion; An operation unit capable of instructing start of driving of the contraction tube operation, an imaging unit that performs an imaging process by exposing a subject light beam incident through the lens barrel unit, and controls the imaging unit And a control unit that controls the drive unit when it is detected that the operation unit is operated, and the control unit is configured to perform the operation unit during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording. When it is detected that the operation is performed, priority is given to any control of the exposure process and the contraction cylinder operation. An imaging apparatus characterized by notifying control information indicating Luke.

  In the present invention, the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is longer than the first length from the first length at which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed. A program for controlling the operation of a control unit included in an imaging apparatus having a lens barrel unit that performs a contraction cylinder operation to reduce the length to a second length, and is incident on the imaging unit via the lens barrel unit The subject light beam is exposed to perform shooting processing, and when the operation unit instructs the start of driving of the contraction tube operation, the contraction tube operation of the lens barrel unit is driven. A control step for controlling the drive unit, and in the control step, when it is detected that the operation unit is operated during a photographing process including an exposure process for recording, the exposure process and Control indicating which control among the contracting cylinder operations is to be prioritized Is a program which is characterized by notifying the broadcast.

  In the present invention, the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is longer than the first length from the first length at which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed. A lens barrel portion that performs a contracting cylinder operation to a second length that is shortened, a drive unit that drives the contracting cylinder operation of the lens barrel portion, and an operation that instructs the start of the driving of the contracting cylinder operation A camera body to which an interchangeable lens having a detachable operation unit is attachable and detachable, the imaging unit performing exposure processing by exposing a subject light beam incident through the lens barrel portion of the interchangeable lens, and the imaging And a control unit that controls the driving unit when it is detected that the operation unit is operated, and the control unit is a period during an imaging process including an exposure process for recording. Of the exposure process and the contraction cylinder operation when it is detected that the operation unit is operated A camera body, characterized by notifying the control information indicating whether to prioritize any control.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the usability when performing the contraction operation of the lens barrel.

It is a block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the imaging device by 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a process in giving priority to an exposure process (imaging process). It is a flowchart which shows the 1st example of a process in giving priority to a contraction cylinder operation. It is a flowchart which shows the 2nd example of a process in giving priority to a contraction cylinder operation. It is a schematic block diagram which shows an example of a structure of the imaging device in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of a process in giving priority to the exposure process (imaging process) in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a process in the case of giving priority to the contraction cylinder operation in 2nd Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
An imaging apparatus 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is an interchangeable lens type imaging apparatus, and includes an interchangeable lens 200 and a camera body 100 to which the interchangeable lens 200 can be attached and detached. In this figure, the interchangeable lens 200 is attached to a camera body side mount portion 101 provided in the camera body 100 via a lens side mount portion 201 provided in the interchangeable lens 200.

In addition, a plurality of electrical connection terminals (mount contacts) are provided in the vicinity of the lens side mount portion 201 of the interchangeable lens 200. The interchangeable lens 200 shown in this figure is provided with six connection terminals TL1 to TL6. On the other hand, a plurality of electrical connection terminals (mount contacts) are also provided in the vicinity of the camera body side mount portion 101 of the camera body 100. The camera body 100 shown in this figure is provided with six connection terminals TB1 to TB6. When the interchangeable lens 200 is attached to the camera body 100, the connection terminals TL1 to TL6 of the interchangeable lens 200 are electrically connected to the corresponding connection terminals of the six connection terminals TB1 to TB6 of the camera body 100. Connected.
When the interchangeable lens 200 is attached to the camera body 100, the lens side mount ground 250 including the conductive casing of the interchangeable lens 200 (lens side mount portion 201), and the camera body 100 (camera body side). The camera body side mount ground 150 including the conductive casing of the mount 101) is electrically connected.

<Configuration of Interchangeable Lens 200>
Next, the configuration of the interchangeable lens 200 will be described in detail.
The interchangeable lens 200 includes an optical system 211 inside, a lens barrel 210 (lens barrel portion) that performs an expansion or contraction operation (collapse) in the optical axis direction, and an expansion or contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. A lens barrel drive unit 220 (drive unit) that drives a tube (collapse) operation, a lens control unit 230, a nonvolatile memory 235, a voltage detection unit 236, and a lens operation unit 240 are provided.

The optical system 211 includes a plurality of lenses such as a zoom lens, a focus adjustment lens (focus lens), an optical image blur correction lens (anti-vibration lens), and an aperture mechanism as photographing lenses. It consists of
The lens barrel 210 is divided into a plurality of parts in the optical axis direction, and a fixed cylinder whose position in the optical axis direction is fixed with respect to the mount surface of the lens side mount portion 201, and an optical axis with respect to the fixed cylinder. A movable cylinder is provided that can move in the direction. As a result, the lens barrel 210 performs an expansion operation for extending the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction and a contraction operation for reducing the length.

  For example, the lens barrel 210 extends the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction to an extended length (first length) that enables the arrangement of the optical system 211 to be photographed. The cylinder expansion operation is performed to obtain a state (a state in which the movable cylinder protrudes in the optical axis direction with respect to the fixed cylinder). The lens barrel 210 is a contracted cylinder whose length in the optical axis direction of the lens barrel is a length (second length) obtained by shortening the length in the optical axis direction with respect to the extended state. A contraction cylinder operation is performed so that the movable cylinder is accommodated in the optical axis direction with respect to the fixed cylinder.

Here, in the state where the lens barrel 210 is contracted, the distance between the plurality of lenses of the optical system 211 in the optical axis direction is shortened, and the length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is shortened. In this state, the arrangement of the optical system 211 is not in a state where it can be photographed but in a state where it is housed.
In the expanded state, for example, when the lens position of the optical system 211 is moved by changing the zoom magnification, adjusting the focus, or the like, the length is longer than the length of the contracted state. The length of the lens barrel 210 may be changed within the range (that is, in the extended state).

  The lens barrel drive unit 220 includes an expansion tube contraction motor 221, an expansion tube contraction drive unit 222, and an encoder 223. The expansion cylinder contraction motor 221 is a power source that drives the expansion or contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. The expansion cylinder contraction tube driving unit 222 receives the control signal from the lens control unit 230 and controls the driving of the expansion tube contraction cylinder motor 221 to drive the expansion or contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. The encoder 223 detects the movement position of the lens barrel (movable cylinder) by the expansion or contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 and transmits a signal indicating the detected position information to the lens control unit 230.

The non-volatile memory 235 is a lens that is information relating to optical characteristics (focal length, open F value, etc.) and functions (auto focus function, aperture drive system, presence / absence of image stabilization function, etc.) of the optical system 211 of the interchangeable lens 200. Information is stored. The lens information stored in the nonvolatile memory 235 is read out as necessary under the control of the lens control unit 230.
In addition, the interchangeable lens 200 includes a lens operation unit 240 having operation buttons that can be operated by a user (operator). The lens operation unit 240 is configured to turn on an anti-vibration function for switching between a contraction button 241 (operation unit) capable of instructing the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 and an anti-vibration lens control. / OFF button 242 and transmits an operation signal indicating an operation state to the lens control unit 230 for each operation button.

The lens control unit 230 performs communication processing with the mounted camera body 100 and controls each part of the interchangeable lens 200.
For example, the lens control unit 230 controls the lens barrel driving unit 220 in accordance with the control command received from the camera body 100 to perform the process of expanding or contracting the lens barrel 210. Specifically, the lens control unit 230 responds to receiving a control command indicating execution of the contraction tube operation from the camera body 100 when the lens barrel 210 is in the expanded state (expanded state). Thus, the expansion cylinder contraction cylinder drive unit 222 is caused to execute the contraction cylinder operation processing. In addition, when the lens barrel 210 is in a contracted state (contracted state), the lens control unit 230 receives a control command indicating execution of the expanding cylinder operation from the camera body 100. The expansion cylinder contraction drive unit 222 is caused to execute the process of the expansion cylinder operation. The lens control unit 230 moves the lens barrel 210 to a predetermined expansion position (a predetermined expansion state or a contraction position (a predetermined reduction state)) based on a signal indicating position information received from the encoder 223. Feedback control is performed to stop the operation.

The lens control unit 230 is operated to instruct the start of the contracting cylinder operation when the contracting cylinder button 241 is pressed according to a user operation and an operation signal indicating the pressed operation state is received. A signal indicating this is transmitted to the mounted camera body 100.
The lens control unit 230 also controls each drive unit (not shown) that drives a zoom lens, a focus lens, a vibration-proof lens, a diaphragm mechanism, and the like.

Next, an electrical connection between the interchangeable lens 200 and the camera body 100 mounted via the lens side mount portion 201 will be described.
The connection terminal TL1 of the interchangeable lens 200 is connected to the connection terminal TB1 of the camera body 100 and supplies power to a drive system circuit such as an expansion tube contraction tube driving unit 222 that drives the lens barrel 210 and a drive unit that drives the optical system 211. The voltage of the power system power supply PWR is supplied from the camera body 100. The connection terminal TL2 of the interchangeable lens 200 is connected to the connection terminal TB2 of the camera body 100, and the voltage of the control system power supply Vcc supplied to the control system circuit such as the lens control unit 230 and the nonvolatile memory 235 is the camera body 100. Supplied from

In the interchangeable lens 200, the maximum power consumption of the load fed from the power system power supply PWR is larger than the maximum power consumption of the load fed from the control system power supply Vcc.
In addition, the voltage detection unit 236 detects (monitors) the voltage of the power system power supply PWR and transmits the detected voltage (power supply state) to the lens control unit 230.

The power system ground PGND, which is a ground corresponding to the power system power supply PWR, is connected via the connection terminal TL6 of the interchangeable lens 200 and the connection terminal TB6 of the camera body 100. In the interchangeable lens 200, the power system ground PGND is connected to respective ground terminals of, for example, the expansion tube contraction tube driving unit 222 and the voltage detection unit 236.
The lens-side mount ground 250 (MGND) is a ground corresponding to the control system power supply Vcc in the interchangeable lens 200, for example, to each ground terminal of the lens control unit 230, the nonvolatile memory 235, the lens operation unit 240, and the like. It is connected.

The connection terminals TL3, TL4, and TL5 of the interchangeable lens 200 are connected to the connection terminals TB3, TB4, and TB5 of the camera body 100, respectively, and signals related to communication processing between the interchangeable lens 200 and the camera body 100 are exchanged.
The lens control unit 230 receives (communications) a handshake signal HS for detecting attachment of the camera body 100 and the interchangeable lens 200 via the connection terminal TL3 and the connection terminal TB3. In addition, the lens control unit 230 exchanges (communications) a data signal DATA for serial communication via the connection terminal TL4 and the connection terminal TB4. In addition, the lens control unit 230 receives the clock signal CLK for serial communication from the camera body 100 via the connection terminal TL5 and the connection terminal TB5.

<Configuration of camera body 100>
Next, the configuration of the camera body 100 will be described in detail.
The camera body 100 includes an imaging unit 102, a sequence processing unit 103, an audio system processing unit 104, a notification unit 110, a power supply unit 120, a camera control unit 130 (control unit), a camera operation unit 140, a battery. A battery unit 160B for storing 160.

The imaging unit 102 includes an imaging element, an A / D conversion unit, and the like, and a subject luminous flux (optical image) incident through the optical system 211 (lens barrel 210) of the attached interchangeable lens 200. ) Is exposed, and the exposure data is converted into a digital signal to generate image data.
The above-described imaging device includes, for example, a well-known CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor.

  The sequence processing unit 103 executes a sequence control process when executing the photographing process. For example, the sequence processing unit 103 causes the imaging unit 102 to execute a sequence process corresponding to each of the still image shooting process and the moving image shooting process, and controls the optical system 211 of the interchangeable lens 200 to be driven. Is transmitted to the lens control unit 230 via the camera control unit 130. In addition, the sequence processing unit 103 executes a sequence process corresponding to the still image shooting process or the moving image shooting process under the control of the camera control unit 130.

  The audio system processing unit 104 converts audio signals input to a sound input unit (not shown) such as a microphone into digital signals and generates audio data. For example, at the time of moving image recording, audio data to be recorded in association with moving image data is generated in parallel with moving image imaging processing in the imaging unit.

The notification unit 110 includes a display unit 111 and a sound output unit 112. The notification unit 110 notifies the user of information (control information) based on the operation state of the imaging apparatus 1 under the control of the camera control unit 130. For example, the notification unit 110 displays information based on the operation state of the imaging device 1 on the display unit 111 as character information or icon information or from the sound output unit 112 as sound information or audio information under the control of the camera control unit 130. Output.
The sound output unit 112 includes, for example, a speaker or a buzzer. The display unit 111 includes a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, an LED (Light Emitting Diode), or the like.

  The sound output unit 112 is provided also as a speaker for outputting sound data associated with the moving image data, for example, when reproducing and displaying the recorded moving image data. It may be provided separately. Further, the display unit 111 may be provided as a display unit that displays image data or the like, or may be provided separately.

  The battery 160 is mounted on the camera body 100 by being housed in the battery unit 160B, and supplies power to each part of the camera body 100 and each part of the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the camera body 100. For example, the battery 160 is a lithium ion secondary battery or a nickel hydride secondary battery. The battery 160 may be a primary battery such as an alkaline battery. The camera body 100 is not limited to a configuration in which power is supplied from the battery 160, but may be supplied from an external DC power source (for example, an AC adapter that converts AC power to DC power and supplies a voltage).

Further, the terminal of the battery unit 160B to which the positive terminal of the stored battery 160 is connected is connected to the power supply unit 120 and the connection terminal TB1 via the switch 123. Thereby, the voltage of the power system power supply PWR corresponding to the voltage (battery voltage) supplied from the battery 160 is supplied to the power supply unit 120 and the connection terminal TB1, respectively.
In addition, the power system ground PGND, which is a ground corresponding to the power system power supply PWR, includes a terminal of the battery unit 160B to which the negative terminal of the stored battery 160 is connected, a connection terminal TB6, and a ground terminal of the power supply unit 120. And connected to each.

  The power supply unit 120 converts the battery voltage supplied from the battery 160 into a voltage supplied to each part of the camera body 100 or the interchangeable lens 200 attached to the camera body 100. For example, the power supply unit 120 generates a voltage of the control system power supply Vcc to be supplied to the lens control unit 230 of the interchangeable lens 200 by converting the battery voltage, and supplies power to the connection terminal TB2. The voltage of the control system power supply Vcc is supplied from the power supply unit 120 of the camera body 100 to the lens control unit 230 of the interchangeable lens 200 via the connection terminal TB2 and the connection terminal TL2 of the interchangeable lens 200.

  Further, the power supply unit 120 converts the battery voltage to generate a voltage of the control system power supply VDD supplied to the control system circuit (mainly the camera control unit 130) provided in the camera body 100. The generated voltage of the control system power supply VDD is supplied to the camera control unit 130 via the diode 122 and the battery voltage is supplied from the battery 160 via the diode 121. For example, when the power supply unit 120 generates the voltage of the control system power supply VDD supplied to the camera control unit 130, the camera control unit 130 is supplied with the voltage of the control system power supply VDD that is higher than the battery voltage. Is done. On the other hand, for example, when the main power switch of the camera body 100 is turned off and the power supply unit 120 stops feeding the voltage of the control system power supply VDD, the voltage of the control system power supply VDD becomes lower than the battery voltage, and the camera control unit A battery voltage is supplied to 130. By supplying the battery voltage, the camera control unit 130 performs control to continue, for example, a clocking operation of a clock circuit and a storage operation of predetermined setting information while the main power switch of the camera body 100 is turned off.

  Note that the camera body side mount ground 150 (MGND) is a control system circuit including a camera control unit 130, a camera operation unit 140, and the like as a ground corresponding to the control system power supply VDD in the camera body 100 (in addition to imaging). Unit 102, sequence processing unit 103, audio system processing unit 104, notification unit 110, and other control system circuits).

  The camera operation unit 140 has operation buttons that can be operated by a user (operator). For example, the camera operation unit 140 includes a release button, a selection button for an operation mode (for example, a mode dial for selecting a still image shooting mode, a moving image shooting mode, etc.), a selection button for various setting conditions (for example, a menu for displaying a menu screen) Button, up / down / left / right selection button, confirmation button, cancel button, etc.). The camera operation unit 140 transmits an operation signal indicating an operation state for each operation button to the camera control unit 130.

  The release button is an operation member that receives an instruction to start shooting processing, and is, for example, a half-pressed state (a half-pressed state, for example, a state that accepts focus adjustment, exposure adjustment, or the like) and a fully-pressed state ( Two types of shooting process start instructions are received, such as a fully pressed state (for example, a state in which an instruction to start exposure is received).

  The camera control unit 130 controls each part of the camera body 100 and performs a communication process with the attached interchangeable lens 200 (lens control unit 230), so that the interchangeable lens 200 is connected via the lens control unit 230. Control each part. That is, the camera control unit 130 controls each unit of the imaging device 1. For example, the camera control unit 130 detects an operation signal from the camera operation unit 140 and controls each unit of the imaging device 1 based on the detected operation signal.

  For example, the camera control unit 130 operates in a set shooting mode (for example, a still image shooting mode, a moving image shooting mode, etc.) in response to detecting an operation signal indicating a shooting mode from the camera operation unit 140. In this manner, the imaging unit 102 is controlled. In addition, the camera control unit 130 detects the operation signal indicating the photographing instruction from the camera operation unit 140 (for example, the operation signal indicating that the release button is pressed (fully pressed)), and the sequence processing unit 103. Is instructed to execute sequence processing corresponding to still image shooting processing or moving image shooting processing. As a result, the sequence processing unit 103 causes the imaging unit 102 to execute sequence processing corresponding to each of the still image shooting processing and the moving image shooting processing, and controls to drive the optical system 211 of the interchangeable lens 200. The command is transmitted to the lens control unit 230 via the camera control unit 130. For example, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command for driving the optical system 211 (for example, a zoom lens, a focus lens, an anti-vibration lens, etc.) of the interchangeable lens 200 as a control command received from the sequence processing unit 103. It transmits to the lens control unit 230. Further, the camera control unit 130 performs various types of image processing (for example, WB (White Balance) adjustment, color correction, gradation correction, etc.) on the image data generated in the imaging unit 102, and then performs the image processing. The data is compressed and recorded in a storage medium (not shown) mounted on the camera body 100.

Further, the camera control unit 130 performs communication processing with the lens control unit 230 to thereby indicate information indicating whether or not the interchangeable lens 200 is attached, lens information of the optical system 211, the lens barrel 210 or the optical lens. Information indicating the driving state of the system 211, information indicating the operation state of the lens operation unit 240, and the like are received, and each unit of the imaging apparatus 1 is controlled based on the received information.
For example, the camera control unit 130 detects whether or not the interchangeable lens 200 is mounted by exchanging information indicating whether or not the interchangeable lens 200 is mounted by the handshake signal HS. Further, the camera control unit 130 performs lens communication of the optical system 211, information indicating the driving state of the lens barrel 210 or the optical system 211, and operation of the lens operation unit 240 through serial communication using the data signal DATA and the clock signal CLK. Receives information indicating the status.

  In addition, the camera control unit 130 is configured to notify the information (control information) based on the operation state of the imaging device 1 on the display unit 111 from the display or sound output unit 112 based on the operation state of the imaging device 1. 110 is controlled.

Next, processing related to the contraction cylinder operation in the first embodiment will be described.
When the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 determines which one of the exposure process (shooting process) and the reduced cylinder operation. Control information indicating whether to prioritize the control is notified. For example, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 has been operated during a still image shooting process including an exposure process for shooting and recording a still image, the exposure process is performed. Control information indicating which control is to be given priority among (still image shooting processing) and contracting cylinder operation is notified. Further, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 has been operated during a period during the moving image shooting process including the exposure process for shooting and recording the moving image, the exposure control (moving image) Control information indicating which control is to be given priority among the image capturing process) and the contraction cylinder operation.

Note that the camera control unit 130 detects that the contraction button 241 of the interchangeable lens 200 has been operated by communicating with the lens control unit 230.
The period during the still image shooting process including the exposure process for shooting and recording a still image is, for example, the exposure data is executed after the release button is fully pressed in the still image shooting mode. A period during which a series of processing from when the image data is generated to when it is recorded is being executed. In addition, the period during the shooting process of the moving image including the exposure process for shooting and recording the moving image means that the button indicating the start of shooting the moving image is pressed in the moving image shooting mode (for example, the release button is fully pressed). This is a period during which a series of processing is being executed until the moving image data generated after the exposure processing after the button indicating the end of shooting of the moving image is pressed (for example, the release button is pressed again) is recorded.

In addition, the camera control unit 130 notifies the user of the control information described above via the notification unit 110. For example, the camera control unit 130 displays, on the display unit 111, control information indicating which control of the exposure process (shooting process) and the contraction cylinder operation is given priority as character information or icon information, The sound information is output from the sound output unit 112 as sound information. Further, the camera control unit 130 includes information related to non-prioritized control (for example, control to end the photographing process, reduction, etc.) as control information indicating which control is to be given priority among the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation. Information indicating control for holding the cylinder operation or the like may be notified to the user via the notification unit 110.
Specifically, when priority is given to the exposure process (moving image shooting process), the camera control unit 130 gives “priority to the shooting process” to the display unit 111 as information indicating that the exposure process (moving image shooting process) is prioritized. ", Or text information such as" pending the lens barrel with priority given to the photographing process "may be displayed. In addition, when giving priority to the contraction operation, the camera control unit 130 gives information indicating that priority is given to the contraction operation to the display unit 111 as “prioritize the lens contraction operation” or “ Character information such as “the photographing process is forcibly terminated because it has been pressed” may be displayed.

  Note that the camera control unit 130 converts the information indicating that the exposure process (moving image shooting process) is given priority or the information indicating that the reduced-cylinder operation is given priority to the display unit 111 as iconified information. It may be displayed. Further, the camera control unit 130 outputs, from the sound output unit 112, the above-described information indicating that the exposure process (moving image shooting process) is prioritized or the information indicating that the contraction cylinder operation is prioritized as audio information. You may let them.

  Therefore, the camera control unit 130 gives priority to any control of the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation when an operation to instruct the contraction cylinder operation of the lens barrel 210 is performed during the period during the imaging process. It is possible to notify the user of control information indicating this.

  Note that the trigger for starting the contraction operation is not limited to pressing the contraction button 241. For example, the trigger for starting the contraction operation is that the switch for switching on and off the main power source of the imaging apparatus 1 (camera body 100) is turned off, and the operation for removing the interchangeable lens 200 is performed. It may be done.

  Further, the camera control unit 130 performs control (first control) for performing processing that prioritizes exposure processing (imaging processing) and control (second control) for performing processing that prioritizes the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. Among these, any set control is executed. For example, the camera control unit 130 executes any one of the above-described first control and second control that is set in advance in the imaging apparatus 1. Note that, in the imaging apparatus 1, one of the first control and the second control that is set in advance is set to one of the first control and the second control. Alternatively, it may be set to one of the first control and the second control in accordance with the type of shooting process (still image shooting process, moving image shooting process, etc.).

  In addition, the camera control unit 130 may execute any control selected by the user from the first control and the second control described above. For example, the imaging apparatus 1 displays a selection screen (setting menu) on which the first control or the second control can be selected on the display unit as one of setting modes in which various settings of the imaging apparatus 1 are possible. You may make it set to the control selected according to operation. Further, the imaging apparatus 1 displays this selection screen (setting menu) on the display unit when the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed during the shooting process, and executes the control selected according to the user's operation. You may make it do.

  Thus, when it is set as the structure which can be selected by the user, the camera control part 130 performs either control selected by the user among 1st control and 2nd control according to a user's convenience. be able to. Furthermore, the camera control unit 130 can notify the user which control selected by the user from the first control and the second control is to be executed.

The camera control unit 130 executes the above-described first control in the case of the still image shooting process, and executes any one of the first control and the second control in the case of the moving image shooting process. You may do it. That is, in the case of the still image shooting process, the camera control unit 130 may execute the first control that prioritizes the shooting process because the time during the shooting process is often shorter than the moving image shooting process. On the other hand, the camera control unit 130 often has a longer time during the shooting process than the still image shooting process (in comparison, the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed (a trigger for the reduced cylinder operation is input). ) In the case of moving image shooting processing (which is assumed to have frequent opportunities), even if one of the first control and the second control selected (for example, selected by the user) is executed Good.
Thereby, the camera control unit 130 can execute a suitable control of the first control and the second control according to the type of the photographing process.

  Subsequently, each operation of the control (first control) for performing processing for prioritizing the exposure processing (imaging processing) and the control (second control) for performing processing for prioritizing the contraction cylinder operation will be described in detail.

(Example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (photographing processing))
First, an example of control (first control) for performing processing that prioritizes exposure processing (imaging processing) will be described.
When the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction tube button 241 is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 starts execution of the process of the reduction tube operation for the lens barrel driving unit 220. Information indicating that the processing is suspended is notified as control information, and after the exposure processing for recording is completed, execution of the suspended contraction tube processing is started in the lens barrel driving unit 220 The control (first control) to be performed is executed.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (imaging processing). Hereinafter, an example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (imaging processing) will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The camera control unit 130 detects whether or not the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed (whether or not there is a trigger input for the reduction cylinder operation) through communication processing with the lens control unit 230 (step S11). For example, when the lens control unit 230 detects that the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed, information indicating that the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed (information indicating that there has been a trigger input for the reduction cylinder operation). To the camera control unit 130. When the camera control unit 130 receives information indicating that the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed from the lens control unit 230 (information indicating that there has been a trigger input for the reduction cylinder operation), the camera control unit 130 presses the reduction cylinder button 241. It is detected that there has been a trigger input for shrinking cylinder operation.

  In step S <b> 11, if the camera control unit 130 does not receive information indicating that the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed from the lens control unit 230 (information indicating that there has been a trigger input for the reduction cylinder operation), the lens control is performed. Through the communication process with the unit 230, the process of step S11 for detecting whether or not the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed (whether or not there is a trigger input for the reduced cylinder operation) is repeatedly executed. On the other hand, when the camera control unit 130 detects in step S11 that the reduction cylinder button 241 has been pressed (there is a trigger input for the reduction cylinder operation) through communication processing with the lens control unit 230, the process proceeds to step S12. Proceed with the process.

  In step S12, the camera control unit 130 determines whether a shooting process for recording is being performed. If it is determined in step S12 that the photographing process is not being performed, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S16). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S12 that the photographing process is being performed, the camera control unit 130 determines whether or not the exposure process has been completed (step S13).
If it is determined in step S13 that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S16). . As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S <b> 13 that the exposure process has not been completed, the camera control unit 130 performs a process of transmitting a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230. Hold (step S14). If it is determined in step S <b> 13 that the exposure process has not been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits to the lens control unit 230 a control command for suspending execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. It is good also as control. Thereby, the lens control unit 230 suspends the execution start of the process of the contraction cylinder operation for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  Next, the camera control unit 130 notifies information indicating that the start of execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 is suspended (information indicating that the contraction operation is pending) via the notification unit 110 (step S15). ). For example, the camera control unit 130 causes the display unit 111 to display character information such as “pushing the lens reduction tube with priority on shooting processing”, and the shooting processing is given priority and the reduction tube operation is on hold. Notify that there is.

  Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 returns to the process of determining whether or not the exposure process in step S13 is completed, and until it is determined in step S13 that the exposure process is completed, the camera control unit 130 performs steps S13 to S15. Repeat the process. If it is determined in step S <b> 13 that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits to the lens control unit 230 a control command indicating the execution start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 that has been suspended. (Step S16). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

As described above, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction cylinder button 241 is operated during the photographing process including the exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 suspends the execution start of the process of the reduction cylinder operation. Thus, information indicating that the process is suspended can be notified as control information. Further, the camera control unit 130 can cause the lens barrel drive unit 220 to start executing the process of the contracted cylinder operation that has been suspended after the exposure process for recording is completed.
That is, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction tube button 241 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 completes the shooting process during the process (exposure process). Until the lens is contracted, and then the lens contraction operation is started.
As a result, the camera control unit 130 can complete the shooting process without interruption, and can execute the reduced-tube operation without requiring another user operation after the shooting process is completed.

(Example of processing when priority is given to shrinking cylinder operation)
Next, an example of control (second control) for performing processing for giving priority to the contracting cylinder operation will be described.
When the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction button 241 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, whether or not the exposure process for recording has been completed. Regardless of whether or not, information indicating that the process has been terminated is notified as control information, and control (second control) for starting execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is executed.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a first example of processing when priority is given to the contracting cylinder operation. Hereinafter, an example of processing in the case where priority is given to the contraction cylinder operation will be specifically described with reference to the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 3. Note that the processing in steps S21 and S22 in FIG. 3 is the same as the processing in steps S11 and S12 in FIG.

  In step S <b> 22, when it is determined that the timing at which the reduction tube button 241 is pressed is not in the shooting process, the camera control unit 130 issues a control command indicating the start of the reduction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230. (Step S25). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  On the other hand, in step S22, when it is determined that the timing at which the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed is during the shooting process, the camera control unit 130 ends the shooting process regardless of whether the exposure process is completed (forced). End) (step S23).

Next, the camera control unit 130 notifies the information indicating that the photographing process is ended (forced end) via the notification unit 110 (step S24). For example, the camera control unit 130 causes the display unit 111 to display text information such as “the lens barrel button has been pressed, so the shooting process is forcibly terminated”, and the reduction process is prioritized and the shooting process is terminated. Notify that.
Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S25).

  As described above, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the process for the exposure process for recording is completed. Regardless of whether or not the process has been performed, information indicating that the process has been terminated can be notified as control information. That is, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction tube button 241 has been operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 forcibly ends the exposure process (shooting process) and The cylinder operation process can be started immediately.

Note that the processing for forcibly ending the shooting process when the timing at which the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 has been pressed is in the shooting process has been described with reference to FIG. It is not limited to.
For example, the camera control unit 130 does not interrupt the shooting process when the exposure process is completed even when the timing at which the reduction button 241 is detected is in the shooting process. A contracting cylinder operation may be executed.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a second example of processing when priority is given to the contraction cylinder operation. Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 4, an example of a process for giving priority to the contracting cylinder operation and executing the contracting cylinder operation without interrupting the photographing process when the exposure process is completed. explain. Note that the processing in steps S31 and S32 in FIG. 4 is the same as the processing in steps S11 and S12 in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S <b> 32 that the timing at which the contraction cylinder button 241 is pressed is not in the shooting process, the camera control unit 130 issues a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230. (Step S36). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S22 that the timing at which the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed is in the shooting process, the camera control unit 130 then determines whether or not the exposure process is completed (step S22). S33).
If it is determined in step S33 that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 continues the imaging process being executed without interruption, and indicates the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. A control command is transmitted to the lens control unit 230 (step S36). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S33 that the exposure process has not been completed, the camera control unit 130 interrupts the exposure process and ends (forcibly ends) the photographing process (step S34).

Next, the camera control unit 130 notifies the information indicating that the exposure process is interrupted and the photographing process is ended (forced end) via the notification unit 110 (step S35).
Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating start of execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S36). As a result, the lens control unit 230 executes a contraction operation process for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  As described above, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction button 241 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, and the exposure process is completed, the camera process is performed. When the exposure process is not completed, the reduction process can be performed without interrupting the photographing process. That is, when the camera control unit 130 detects that the reduction tube button 241 has been operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 forcibly ends the exposure process (shooting process) and The cylinder operation process can be started immediately, and the photographed image can be recorded without interrupting the photographing process if the timing when the contraction cylinder button 241 is operated is after the exposure process is completed.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the imaging apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment. An imaging apparatus 1A shown in this figure is an interchangeable lens type imaging apparatus, and includes an interchangeable lens 200A and a camera body 100A to which the interchangeable lens 200A can be attached and detached. In the figure, portions corresponding to the respective portions in FIG.

In the second embodiment shown in this figure, when the interchangeable lens 200A is attached to the camera body 100A, a deterrence mechanism portion (described later, a lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism) that prevents the attachment state from being removed while the attached state is maintained. Point 280) is different from the first embodiment.
In the imaging apparatus 1A, an operation of removing the interchangeable lens 200A from the camera body 100A (an operation of a lens attaching / detaching button 173 described later) also serves as a trigger for starting the contracting cylinder operation.

  The camera body 100A is in a holding state that holds the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A that is mounted by mounting the interchangeable lens 200A on the camera body 100A, and a lens that can be removed by releasing the holding state. An attachment / detachment mechanism 170 is provided. This lens attaching / detaching mechanism 170 may be provided in the camera body 100 of the first embodiment.

The lens attaching / detaching mechanism portion 170 includes a lock pin 171, a holding mechanism portion 172, and a lens attaching / detaching button 173 (release mechanism portion).
The lock pin 171 moves in an axial direction perpendicular to the mount surface of the camera body side mount portion 101 between a protruding position that protrudes with respect to the mount surface of the camera body side mount portion 101 and a retracted position that does not protrude. It is provided as possible. The holding mechanism portion 172 includes a spring member that urges the lock pin 171 in the protruding position direction. When the interchangeable lens 200A is attached to the camera body side mounting portion 101, the lock pin 171 is moved in the protruding position direction. Energize. Thus, when the interchangeable lens 200A is mounted on the camera body side mount portion 101, the lock pin 171 protruding in the protruding position direction is engaged with the engagement hole 270 of the lens side mount portion 201 of the interchangeable lens 200A. . That is, the holding mechanism portion 172 engages the lock pin 171 with the engagement hole 270 when the interchangeable lens 200A is attached to the camera body side mount portion 101 (camera body side mount portion 101 of the interchangeable lens 200A). When the interchangeable lens 200 </ b> A is mounted (the mounted state of the interchangeable lens 200 </ b> A) is held by locking the lens so that it cannot be rotated (by making the rotation impossible).

  The lens attaching / detaching button 173 is a button that can release the holding state in which the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200 </ b> A is held by the holding mechanism unit 172. The lens attaching / detaching button 173 moves in conjunction with the direction (retracted position direction) opposite to the direction in which the lock pin 171 is urged (the protruding position direction) in response to an operation by the user. It is configured to let you. For example, when the user presses the lens attaching / detaching button 173, the lock pin 171 moves in the retracted position direction in conjunction with each other, and the engagement between the lock pin 171 and the engagement hole 270 is released. As a result, the attached interchangeable lens 200A can be detached from the camera body 100A (the interchangeable lens 200A can be rotated with respect to the camera body side mount portion 101). That is, the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is a button that can release the holding state in which the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is held by the holding mechanism unit 172 in accordance with a user operation.

  Further, when detecting that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been pressed, the camera control unit 130 controls that the trigger for contracting the lens barrel 210A of the interchangeable lens 200A is input. Details of the contraction cylinder operation in this case will be described later.

Next, the lens attachment / detachment locking mechanism unit 280 (suppression mechanism unit) provided in the interchangeable lens 200A will be described.
The lens attaching / detaching lock mechanism unit 280 includes a lock pin 281, an attaching / detaching lock motor 282, and an attaching / detaching lock driving unit 283, and the lens attachment / detachment button 173 holds a holding state in which the attachment state is held by the holding mechanism unit 172. The interchangeable lens 200A is prevented from being released (so that the interchangeable lens 200A cannot be removed from the camera body 100A).

  The lock pin 281 is movable in the axial direction perpendicular to the mount surface of the lens side mount unit 201 between a projecting position that projects from the mount surface of the lens side mount unit 201 and a retracted position that does not project. It is provided as follows. The detachable lock motor 282 is a power source that moves (drives) the lock pin 281 to the protruding position or the retracted position. The attachment / detachment lock drive unit 283 receives the control signal from the lens control unit 230 and controls the drive of the attachment / detachment lock motor 282 to move the lock pin 281 to the protruding position or the retracted position.

  Thus, when the interchangeable lens 200A is mounted on the camera body 100A, when the lock pin 281 of the lens attaching / detaching lock mechanism 280 is moved to the protruding position under the control of the lens control unit 230, the lock pin 281 is It is engaged with the engagement hole 180 of the camera body side mount 101 of 100A. Thus, even if the engagement between the lock pin 171 and the engagement hole 270 is released by operating the lens attaching / detaching button 173, the lock pin 281 and the engagement hole 180 are engaged. The state where the interchangeable lens 200A is mounted (the mounted state of the interchangeable lens 200A) is held. That is, the lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism 280 engages the lock pin 281 with the engagement hole 180 under the control of the lens control unit 230 in a state where the interchangeable lens 200A is mounted on the camera body 100A (the interchangeable lens 200A has Even if the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated, the interchangeable lens 200A is attached (by the interchangeable lens). 200A wearing state).

  Subsequently, when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed, the control (third control) for giving priority to the exposure processing (imaging processing) and the control (fourth control) for giving priority to the shrinking cylinder operation are performed. ) Will be described.

(Example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (photographing processing) when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed)
First, an example of control (third control) for performing processing that prioritizes exposure processing (imaging processing) when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed will be described.
When the camera control unit 130 detects that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 suppresses the release of the holding state that holds the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A. At the same time, a control (third control) is executed in which the start of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is suspended and the exposure process for recording is continued.

In the third control described above, the camera control unit 130 controls at least one of the information indicating that the release of the holding state is suppressed and the information indicating that the execution start of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is suspended. You may alert | report as information.
In the third control described above, the camera control unit 130 starts execution of the pending contraction cylinder operation process after the exposure process for recording is completed, and the contraction cylinder operation process is completed. The holding state may be released later.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (imaging processing) when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed. Hereinafter, an example of processing when priority is given to exposure processing (imaging processing) will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The camera control unit 130 detects whether or not the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been pressed (whether or not there is a trigger input for the contraction cylinder operation) (step S41). If it is not detected in step S41 that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been pressed, the camera control unit 130 repeatedly executes the process of step S41 for detecting whether the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been pressed. On the other hand, when it is detected in step S41 that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been pressed, the camera control unit 130 determines whether or not shooting processing for recording is being performed (step S42).

  If it is determined in step S42 that the photographing process is not being performed, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S47). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S42 that the photographing process is being performed, then the camera control unit 130 determines whether or not the exposure process has been completed (step S43).

  If it is determined in step S43 that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S47). .

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S43 that the exposure process has not been completed, the camera control unit 130 performs a process of transmitting a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230. Hold (step S44). If it is determined in step S43 that the exposure process has not been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits to the lens control unit 230 a control command for suspending execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210. It is good also as control. Thereby, the lens control unit 230 suspends the execution start of the process of the contraction cylinder operation for the lens barrel drive unit 220.

  Next, the camera control unit 130 performs lens control on a control command (control command for locking the mounting state) for preventing the holding state where the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is held from being released by the lens attaching / detaching button 173. It transmits to the part 230 (step S45). In response to receiving this control command, the lens control unit 230 controls the attachment / detachment lock driving unit 283 of the lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism unit 280 to move the lock pin 281 to the protruding position (locks the attachment state). / Cannot release the held state that holds the mounted state).

  Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 includes information indicating that the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is locked, and information indicating that execution of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 has been suspended (indicating that the contraction operation is pending). Information) is notified via the notification unit 110 (step S46). For example, the camera control unit 130 causes the display unit 111 to display character information such as “lock lens mounting state and hold down the shrinking tube operation”, and the imaging process has priority and the shrinking tube operation is on hold. Is notified.

  Next, the camera control unit 130 returns to the process of determining whether or not the exposure process in step S43 has been completed, and until it is determined in step S43 that the exposure process has been completed, steps S43 to S46 are performed. Repeat the process. If it is determined in step S43 that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 transmits to the lens control unit 230 a control command indicating the execution start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 that has been suspended. (Step S47).

  In step S47, the lens control unit 230 receives a control command transmitted from the camera control unit 130 and indicating the start of execution of the contracting cylinder operation. The lens control unit 230 controls the lens barrel driving unit 220 to execute a contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A according to the received control command. Then, the lens control unit 230 detects that the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 </ b> A has been completed based on the signal indicating the position information received from the encoder 223. When the lens control unit 230 detects that the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 </ b> A is completed, the lens control unit 230 transmits information indicating that the contraction operation is completed to the camera control unit 130. The camera control unit 130 receives information indicating that the contraction operation has been completed from the lens control unit 230 (step S48).

  Next, the camera control unit 130 determines whether or not the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is locked (whether or not the process of step S45 is performed) (step S49). If it is determined in step S49 that the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is not locked, the camera control unit 130 ends the process.

  On the other hand, when it is determined in step S49 that the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is locked, the camera control unit 130 unlocks the mounting state (step S50). For example, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command for unlocking the wearing state to the lens control unit 230. In response to receiving this control command, the lens control unit 230 controls the attachment / detachment lock driving unit 283 of the lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism unit 280 to move the lock pin 281 to the retracted position (locking the attached state). To release / make it possible to release the held state where the mounted state is held).

  Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 notifies the information indicating that the mounting state is unlocked or the information indicating that the contraction operation is completed via the notification unit 110 (step S51), and ends the process. To do. For example, the camera control unit 130 displays character information such as “unlocking of the lens mounting state and completion of contraction” on the display unit 111 to notify that the interchangeable lens 200A can be removed.

As described above, the camera control unit 130 prevents the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the photographing process including the exposure process for recording, and reduces the contraction cylinder. The execution start of the operation process can be suspended, the exposure process can be continued, and the photographing process can be prioritized. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed or the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A of the interchangeable lens 200A to be started during the photographing process.
In addition, the camera control unit 130 provides control information (information indicating that the release of the holding state has been suppressed or information indicating that the start of execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation has been suspended) indicating that priority is given to the imaging process. The user can be notified.
In addition, the camera control unit 130 starts execution of the held contracting cylinder operation after the exposure process is completed, and enables the interchangeable lens 200A to be removed after the contracting cylinder operation process is completed. Can do.

(Example of processing when priority is given to the contraction cylinder operation when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed)
Next, an example of control (fourth control) for performing processing for giving priority to the contraction cylinder operation when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed will be described.

  When the camera control unit 130 detects that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the camera control unit 130 suppresses the release of the holding state that holds the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A. At the same time, a control (fourth control) is executed to end the exposure process for recording regardless of whether or not the process is completed.

In the fourth control described above, the camera control unit 130 may notify at least one of the information indicating that the release of the holding state is suppressed and the information indicating that the exposure process is ended as control information. Good.
Further, in the above-described fourth control, the camera control unit 130 starts the process of the contracting cylinder operation after suppressing the cancellation of the holding state, and cancels the holding state after the processing of the contracting cylinder operation is completed. May be.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing when priority is given to the contracting cylinder operation when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed. Hereinafter, an example of processing when priority is given to the contracting cylinder operation will be described in detail with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the processing in steps S61 and S62 in FIG. 7 is the same as the processing in steps S41 and S42 in FIG. Also, the processing from step S67 to S71 in FIG. 7 is the same as the processing from step S47 to S51 in FIG.

  If it is determined in step S62 that the photographing process is not being performed, the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 to the lens control unit 230 (step S67). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S62 that the photographing process is being performed, then the camera control unit 130 transmits a control command for locking the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A to the lens control unit 230 (step S64). In response to receiving this control command, the lens control unit 230 controls the attachment / detachment lock driving unit 283 of the lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism unit 280 to move the lock pin 281 to the protruding position (locks the attachment state). / Cannot release the held state that holds the mounted state).

Next, the camera control unit 130 ends (forced termination) the shooting process regardless of whether the exposure process is completed (step S64).
The camera control unit 130 may perform a process of determining whether or not the exposure process is completed in the process of step S64. For example, when the camera control unit 130 determines that the exposure process has been completed, the camera control unit 130 executes a process of generating and recording image data from the exposure data acquired by the exposure process (the shooting process is completed). From) The photographing process may be terminated. On the other hand, when the camera control unit 130 determines that the exposure process is not completed, the camera control unit 130 may interrupt the exposure process and end (forcibly end) the photographing process.

  Subsequently, the camera control unit 130 notifies the information indicating that the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is locked and the information indicating that the photographing process is ended (forced termination) via the notification unit 110 ( Step S65). For example, the camera control unit 130 causes the display unit 111 to display text information such as “lock the lens mounting state and forcibly end the imaging process” to notify that the imaging process has been completed with priority on the contraction operation. To do.

Next, the camera control unit 130 advances the process to step S <b> 67 and transmits a control command to the lens control unit 230 indicating the start of the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210.
The process after step S67 is the same as the process after step S47 of FIG.

As described above, the camera control unit 130 prevents the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the photographing process including the exposure process for recording. Thus, the exposure process (photographing process) for recording can be terminated (forced termination) regardless of whether or not the process has been completed, and the reduced-cylinder operation can be prioritized.
Further, the camera control unit 130 notifies the user of information indicating that the photographing process is forcibly terminated (information indicating that the release of the holding state is suppressed or information indicating that the exposure process is terminated). Can do.
In addition, the camera control unit 130 can detach the interchangeable lens 200A after forcibly terminating the photographing process and completing the process of the contraction cylinder operation in a state where the removal of the interchangeable lens 200A is suppressed. can do. Therefore, when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the photographing process, it is possible to prevent the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed during the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A.

  Note that the camera control unit 130 executes any one of the set controls out of the third control and the fourth control described above. For example, the camera control unit 130 executes any control preset in the imaging apparatus 1A among the third control and the fourth control. In the imaging apparatus 1A, one of the third control and the fourth control that is set in advance is set to one of the third control and the fourth control. Alternatively, the control may be set to any one of the third control and the fourth control in accordance with the type of shooting process (still image shooting process, moving image shooting process, etc.).

  In addition, the camera control unit 130 may execute any control selected by the user among the above-described third control and fourth control. For example, the imaging apparatus 1A displays a selection screen (setting menu) on which the third control or the fourth control can be selected on the display unit as one of setting modes in which various settings of the imaging apparatus 1A can be performed. You may make it set to the control selected according to operation. Further, the imaging apparatus 1A displays this selection screen (setting menu) on the display unit after the release state of the interchangeable lens 200A is suppressed when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed during the photographing process. Then, the control selected according to the user's operation may be set.

  Thus, when it is set as the structure which can be selected by the user, the camera control part 130 performs any control selected by the user among 3rd control and 4th control according to a user's convenience. be able to. Furthermore, the camera control unit 130 can notify the user which control is to be executed among the third control and the fourth control.

Note that the camera control unit 130 executes the above-described third control in the case of the still image shooting process, and executes any one of the third control and the fourth control in the case of the moving image shooting process. You may do it. That is, in the case of the still image shooting process, the camera control unit 130 may execute the third control that prioritizes the shooting process because the time during the shooting process is often shorter than the moving image shooting process. On the other hand, the camera control unit 130 often has a longer time during the shooting process than the still image shooting process (in comparison, the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is pressed (the trigger for the contracting cylinder operation is input). ) In the case of a moving image shooting process (which is assumed to have frequent opportunities), even if one of the third control and the fourth control selected (for example, selected by the user) is executed Good.
Thereby, the camera control unit 130 can execute a suitable control among the third control and the fourth control in accordance with the type of the photographing process.

  As described above, in the imaging apparatus 1 (1A) according to the present embodiment, the trigger for starting the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 (210A) is input during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording. In this case, it is possible to notify the user of control information indicating which control is to be given priority among the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation.

  Note that the imaging apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment has a case where the reduction tube button 241 is pressed as an operation for instructing the reduction operation of the lens barrel 210 during a photographing process including an exposure process for recording. Then, the control information indicating which of the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation is to be prioritized is notified to the user. As a result, the imaging apparatus 1 gives the user control information indicating which of the exposure process (imaging process) and the reduced cylinder operation has priority when the reduced cylinder button 241 is pressed during the imaging process. Can be notified.

In addition, when the imaging apparatus 1 detects that the reduced cylinder button 241 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the imaging apparatus 1 suspends the execution start of the reduced cylinder operation process, Information indicating that the process is suspended is broadcast as control information. In addition, after the exposure process for recording is completed, the imaging apparatus 1 starts to execute the suspended contraction cylinder operation process in the lens barrel drive unit 220. In other words, when the reduced-size button 241 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the imaging apparatus 1 completes the shooting process during the process (until the exposure process is completed). Continue to execute the lens contraction operation.
As a result, the imaging apparatus 1 can complete the shooting process without interruption, and can execute the contraction tube operation without requiring another operation from the user after the shooting process is completed.

  In addition, when the reduction tube button 241 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, the imaging apparatus 1 performs the exposure process for recording regardless of whether the process is completed. When the process ends, information indicating that the process is completed is notified as control information, and the process of the contraction cylinder operation is started. That is, the imaging apparatus 1 forcibly terminates the exposure process (imaging process) when it is detected that the reduced cylinder button 241 has been operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording. The operation process can be started immediately.

  Further, in the imaging apparatus 1A according to the second embodiment, when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated as an operation for instructing the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210 during the photographing process including the exposure process for recording. Then, the control information indicating which of the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation is to be prioritized is notified to the user. Thereby, the imaging apparatus 1A gives the user control information indicating which control is to be given priority between the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the imaging process. Can be notified.

  In addition, the imaging apparatus 1A suppresses the release of the holding state that holds the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording. The start of execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is suspended and the exposure process for recording is continued. Further, the imaging apparatus 1A starts executing the suspended contraction cylinder process after the exposure process is completed, and enables the interchangeable lens 200A to be removed after the contraction cylinder process is completed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed or the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A of the interchangeable lens 200A to be started during the photographing process.

  In addition, the imaging apparatus 1A holds control information (information indicating that the release of the held state is suppressed, or processing of the contracting cylinder operation) indicating that the execution start of the above-described contracting cylinder processing is suspended and the imaging processing is prioritized (Information indicating that the execution start of is suspended) is notified to the user. As a result, the imaging apparatus 1A suspends execution of the process of the contraction cylinder operation when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the shooting process including the exposure process for recording, and performs exposure for recording. While continuing the process, it is possible to notify the user of control information indicating that the execution start of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is suspended and the imaging process is prioritized.

  In addition, when the imaging apparatus 1A detects that the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, the imaging apparatus 1A releases the holding state that holds the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A. In addition, the exposure process for recording is terminated regardless of whether or not the process is completed. In addition, the imaging apparatus 1A starts executing the process of the contracting cylinder operation after suppressing the release of the holding state, and releases the holding state after the processing of the contracting cylinder operation is completed. Thereby, when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during the photographing process, it is possible to prevent the interchangeable lens 200A from being removed during the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A. Therefore, the imaging apparatus 1A can prevent the contraction operation of the lens barrel 210A from being interrupted during the contraction operation.

  Further, the imaging apparatus 1A notifies at least one of the information indicating that the release of the above-described holding state is suppressed and the information indicating that the exposure process is ended as control information. Thereby, the imaging apparatus 1A locks the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A when the lens attaching / detaching button 173 is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, and performs an exposure process for recording. Regardless of whether or not the process is completed, information indicating that the mounting state of the interchangeable lens 200A is locked or information indicating that the photographing process is forcibly ended can be notified to the user.

In addition, the imaging apparatus 1 (1A) is configured to be able to select which control among the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation is to be prioritized according to a user operation.
Thereby, the imaging device 1 can arbitrarily select the priority of control according to the convenience of the user.

  Further, the imaging apparatus 1 (1A) gives priority to the exposure process (shooting process) in the case of a still image shooting process, for example, in the case of a still image shooting process, and in the case of a moving image shooting process, the imaging apparatus 1 (1A). One of the cylinder operations is controlled. Thereby, the imaging device 1 (1A) can execute suitable control among the exposure process (imaging process) and the contraction cylinder operation according to the type of the imaging process.

  In addition, the alerting | reporting part 110 in the said embodiment may be provided in the interchangeable lens 200 (200A). For example, the notification unit 110 may be included in the interchangeable lens 200 (200A) and may be controlled by the lens control unit 230, or may be controlled via the lens control unit 230 under the control of the camera control unit 130. In addition, the notification unit 110 may be cooperatively controlled by the camera control unit 130 and the lens control unit 230.

  In addition, although the alerting | reporting part 110 in the said embodiment was set as the structure provided with the display part 111 and the sound output part 112, it is good also as a structure provided with either one of the display part 111 or the sound output part 112. .

  2 is configured to be provided in the interchangeable lens 200A and controlled by the lens control unit 230, but may be configured to be provided in the camera body 100 and controlled by the camera control unit 130. Good.

  1 is not limited to an interchangeable lens type imaging apparatus, and may be an imaging apparatus having a configuration in which the interchangeable lens 200 and the camera body 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 are integrated.

  The camera control unit 130 or the lens control unit 230 in FIGS. 1 and 5 may be realized by dedicated hardware, and is configured by a memory and a CPU (central processing unit). The function may be realized by loading a program for realizing this function into a memory and executing it.

  Also, a program for realizing the functions of the camera control unit 130 or the lens control unit 230 in FIGS. 1 and 5 is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program recorded on the recording medium is read into a computer system. The processing of each unit described above may be performed by executing. Here, the “computer system” includes an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.

Further, the “computer system” includes a homepage providing environment (or display environment) if a WWW system is used.
The “computer-readable recording medium” refers to a storage device such as a flexible medium, a magneto-optical disk, a portable medium such as a ROM and a CD-ROM, and a hard disk incorporated in a computer system. Furthermore, the “computer-readable recording medium” dynamically holds a program for a short time like a communication line when transmitting a program via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. In this case, it also includes those that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory inside a computer system serving as a server or client in that case. The program may be a program for realizing a part of the functions described above, and may be a program capable of realizing the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in a computer system.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes design and the like within a scope not departing from the gist of the present invention.

  1, 1A imaging device, 102 imaging unit, 100, 100A camera body, 110 notification unit, 130 camera control unit (control unit), 172 holding mechanism unit, 173, lens attaching / detaching button (release mechanism unit), 210, 210A lens mirror Tube (lens barrel portion), 220 Lens barrel drive portion (drive portion), 241 Shrink tube button (operation portion), 280 Lens attachment / detachment lock mechanism portion (suppression mechanism portion), 200, 200A Interchangeable lens

Claims (19)

The length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is reduced from the first length at which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed to a length shorter than the first length. A lens barrel portion that performs a contraction cylinder operation to a length of
A drive unit for driving the contraction operation of the lens barrel unit;
An operation unit capable of instructing the start of driving of the contraction cylinder operation;
An imaging unit that performs an imaging process by exposing a subject luminous flux incident through the lens barrel unit;
A control unit that controls the imaging unit and controls the driving unit when it is detected that the operation unit is operated;
With
The controller is
Control information indicating which control is to be given priority between the exposure process and the contraction cylinder operation when it is detected that the operation unit is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording An imaging apparatus characterized by notifying The controller is
When it is detected that the operation unit has been operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for the recording,
The start of execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation for the drive unit is suspended, information indicating that the process is suspended is notified as the control information, and after the exposure process for the recording is completed, the suspension is performed. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein first control is executed to cause the drive unit to start executing the process of the contracted cylinder operation that has been performed. The controller is
When it is detected that the operation unit has been operated during a photographing process including the exposure process for recording, the exposure process for recording is terminated regardless of whether the process is completed. The information indicating that the process has been terminated is notified as the control information, and the second control for starting the execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is executed. 2. The imaging device according to 2. The controller is
The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein one of the set controls of the first control and the second control is executed. The controller is
The imaging apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein any one of the first control and the second control selected by an operator is executed. Each of the still image shooting process for recording a still image and the moving image shooting process for recording a moving image includes an exposure process for the recording,
The controller is
In the case of the still image shooting process, the first control is executed,
6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein in the moving image shooting process, any one of the first control and the second control is executed. An interchangeable lens having the lens barrel;
A camera body to which the interchangeable lens can be attached and detached;
A holding mechanism for holding the mounting state of the interchangeable lens mounted on the camera body;
A release mechanism that releases the holding state in which the mounting state is held by the holding mechanism in accordance with an operation of an operator;
With
The controller is
When it is detected that the release mechanism is operated during a photographing process including an exposure process for recording, the release of the holding state is suppressed and the execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is started. The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a third control for holding the exposure process for the recording in a suspended state is executed. The controller is
The information indicating that the release of the holding state is suppressed and the information indicating that the start of execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is suspended are notified as the control information. The imaging device described. The controller is
After the exposure process for the recording is completed, the holding process of the contracting cylinder operation that has been suspended is started, and the holding state is released after the processing of the contracting cylinder operation is completed. The imaging device according to claim 7 or 8. The controller is
When it is detected that the release mechanism is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for the recording, the release of the holding state is suppressed and the exposure process for the recording is performed. The imaging device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein a fourth control to be ended is executed regardless of whether or not is completed. The controller is
The imaging apparatus according to claim 10, wherein at least one of information indicating that the release of the holding state is suppressed and information indicating that the exposure process is terminated is notified as the control information. The controller is
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein after the release of the holding state is suppressed, execution of the process of the contracting cylinder operation is started, and after the process of the contracting cylinder operation is completed, the holding state is released. The imaging device described. The controller is
The imaging device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein any one of the set controls of the third control and the fourth control is executed. The controller is
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein any one of the third control and the fourth control selected by an operator is executed. Each of the still image shooting process for recording a still image and the moving image shooting process for recording a moving image includes an exposure process for the recording,
The controller is
In the case of the still image shooting process, the third control is executed,
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein in the moving image shooting process, any one of the third control and the fourth control is executed. A deterrence mechanism unit for inhibiting the holding state in which the mounting state is held by the holding mechanism unit from being released by the release mechanism unit;
The control unit comprises
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 15, wherein the holding mechanism is controlled so as not to be released by controlling the suppression mechanism. A notification unit having at least one of a display unit for displaying information and a sound output unit for outputting information by sound;
With
The controller is
The imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the control information is notified by controlling the notification unit. The length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is reduced from the first length at which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed to a length shorter than the first length. A program for controlling the operation of a control unit provided in an imaging apparatus having a lens barrel unit that performs a contraction cylinder operation to a length of
The imaging unit is exposed to a subject light beam incident through the lens barrel unit to perform a shooting process, and it is detected that an operation for instructing the operation unit to start driving the contraction cylinder operation is performed. A control step for controlling a drive unit that drives the contraction operation of the lens barrel unit,
Including
In the control step, when it is detected that the operation unit is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording, priority is given to any control of the exposure process and the contraction cylinder operation. A program characterized by notifying control information indicating whether or not to execute. The length of the lens barrel in the optical axis direction is reduced from the first length at which the arrangement of the optical system in the lens barrel can be photographed to a length shorter than the first length. A lens barrel portion that performs a contraction operation of the lens barrel portion, a drive portion that drives the contraction tube operation of the lens barrel portion, and an operation portion that can be operated to instruct the start of driving the contraction tube operation, An interchangeable lens having a detachable camera body,
An imaging unit that performs exposure processing by exposing a subject light beam incident through the lens barrel of the interchangeable lens; and
A control unit that controls the imaging unit and controls the driving unit when it is detected that the operation unit is operated;
With
The controller is
Control information indicating which control is to be given priority between the exposure process and the contraction cylinder operation when it is detected that the operation unit is operated during a shooting process including an exposure process for recording A camera body characterized by informing the user.

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