JP2687958B2 - Automatic focus detection device - Google Patents

Description

Description: FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an automatic focus detection device having an auxiliary light device.
I do. Conventional technology Conventionally, a flash that illuminates the subject for shooting,
Equipped with an auxiliary light illumination device that illuminates the subject for focus detection
The cameras that do this are known. This fill light illuminator is usually too dark to focus on the subject.
It is designed to work when detection is not possible. did
Therefore, when auxiliary light is needed for focus detection,
Flash emission is required. However, according to the conventional device, the flash can emit light.
Focus detection using auxiliary light
Since the focus was detected, the focus was detected and the image was taken.
If you try to cast a shadow and the flash is not ready
And wait until the flash can fire.
There was something I had to do. As a countermeasure, flash
After the light source is ready to emit light,
A configuration for performing focus detection is possible. However, simply
Just waiting for the flash to fire
The situation of the subject changes while waiting, and there is no auxiliary light
The focus condition can be detected with and you can shoot without a flash.
Even if the brightness becomes
I'll wait until I miss the shutter chance
Will be able to. Therefore, in the present invention, focus detection operation using auxiliary light is performed.
Make sure the flash is ready to fire
And the focus detection operation using auxiliary light is performed.
By repeatedly performing the normal focus detection operation at
-Providing a focus detection device that prioritizes opportunities
Aim. Means for Solving the Problems In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention receives a subject light.
Based on the light receiving state and the light receiving state, the focus state of the subject is determined.
Focus detecting means for performing a detecting operation, and the focus detecting means
Focusing means for performing a focusing operation based on the detection result of
Auxiliary light means for illuminating the subject for focus detection, and light reception
Determine whether the above-mentioned auxiliary light means is necessary based on the state
The auxiliary light determination means and the auxiliary light determination means
The flash can be fired when a stage is determined to be necessary.
By the judgment means for judging whether or not it is
Flash if it is determined that the flash cannot be fired.
The operation of the auxiliary light means is prohibited until light emission becomes possible.
Prohibiting means and the focus detecting means during operation of the prohibiting means
Can be repeatedly operated and focus detection can be performed during the repeated operation.
If so, the focusing means can be used without using the auxiliary light means.
It has a control means to operate. Action According to the above configuration, when the flash cannot be fired
When the auxiliary light is emitted and the auxiliary light is
The flash can always be fired. Also auxiliary
Focus detection without auxiliary light while light emission is prohibited
The operation is repeated. Embodiments A camera system for automatic focusing according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The outline of the stem will be described with reference to FIG. Fig. 1
The left side of the chain line is the zoom lens (LZ), and the right side is the zoom lens.
It is the main body (BD), and both are clutch (10
6) Connection terminals (JL1) to (JL1) mechanically via (107)
5) Electrically connected via (JB1) to (JB5). This
Camera system, zoom lens (LZ) focus
Lens (FL), zoom lens (ZL), master lens
The subject light that has passed through the lens (ML) is
The semi-transmissive part in the center of the reflection mirror (108) is transmitted, and the
CCD image sensor (FL
The optical system is configured so that
You. The interface circuit (112) is the focus detection module
Drives a CCD image sensor (FLM) in (AFM)
Capturing subject data from a CD image sensor (FLM)
Or send this data to the AF controller (113) again
I will put it out. The AF controller (113) is a CCD image sensor.
Based on the signal from the sensor (FLM).
Defocus amount | ΔL |
Calculate the signal (front pin, rear pin). Motor (MO
1) is driven based on these signals, and its rotation is slippery.
Up mechanism (SLP), drive mechanism (LDR), camera body side
Is transmitted to the zoom lens (LZ) via the switch (107).
You. The slip mechanism (SLP) is the same as the zoom lens (LZ).
If the driven part receives more than the specified torque, it will slip
To prevent the data (MO1) from being overloaded.
is there. Focus lens in zoom lens (LZ)
On the inner circumference of the focus adjustment member (102) for driving (FL)
Has a female helicoid screw formed on it,
The lens mount (121)
A male helicoid screw is formed on the outer periphery of the fixed part (101).
You. A large gear (103) is installed on the outer circumference of the focus adjustment member (102).
The large gear (103) is attached to the small gear (104)
It is connected to the lens side clutch (106) through the reaching mechanism (105).
Is tied. As a result, the rotation of the motor (MO1)
Slip mechanism (SLP) of camera body, clutch on the body side
(107), clutch (106) on lens side, transmission in lens
Via mechanism (105), small gear (104) and large gear (103)
Is transmitted to the focus adjustment member (102) and the helicoid screw
The focusing lens (FL) moves back and forth in the optical axis direction.
The focus is adjusted by moving. Also for the lens (FL)
The encoder (ENC) for monitoring the drive amount is a camera
It is connected to the drive mechanism (LDR) of the main body (BD).
Corresponding to the drive amount of the lens (FL) from the encoder (ENC) of
Number of pulses is output. Here, the number of rotations of the motor (MO1) is NM (rot),
The number of pulses from the encoder (ENC) is N and that of the encoder (ENC)
The resolution is ρ (1 / rot), and the rotation axis of the motor (MO1)
The reduction ratio of the mechanical transmission system up to the coder (ENC) mounting shaft is μ
P, the rotation axis of the motor (MO1) to the camera body side clutch
The mechanical transmission system reduction ratio up to (107) is μB, and the lens side
Reduced the mechanical transmission system from the latch (106) to the large gear (103)
Speed ratio of μL, helicoid lead of focus adjustment member (102)
LH (mm / rot), the amount of movement of the focusing lens (FL)
Let Δd (mm) be N = ρ · μP · NM Δd = NM · μB · μL · LH That is, Δd = N · μB · μL · LH / (ρ · μP) ... (1) To be Also, image formation when the lens is moved by Δd (mm)
When the ratio of the surface movement amount ΔL (mm) and the above Δd is expressed by K op = Δd / ΔL (2), N = Kop · ΔL · ρ · μP / (μB・ ΜL ・ LH) ・ ・ ・ (3) is obtained. Here, if KL = Kop / (μL·LH) (4) KB = ρ · μP / μB (5), then the relational expression of N = KB · KL · ΔL (6) is obtained. . In the equation (6), ΔL is a signal processing circuit (112)
From the defocus amount | ΔL | and the signal in the defocus direction
Is obtained. The KL in equation (4) is a zoom lens.
By rotating the zoom ring (ZR) for zooming (LZ)
Lens circuit (LEC) according to the focal length certified by
Output from That is, at the turning position of the zoom ring (ZR)
The corresponding data is output by the code board (FCD) and this data
Is sent to the lens circuit (LEC) and this code plate (FCD)
Data of KL stored in the address corresponding to these data.
Data is read in series by the reading circuit (LDC) of the camera body.
You. The code plate (FCD) is used to rotate the zoom ring (ZR).
Code pattern so that data corresponding to a fixed position is output
Have been defined. Also, inside the lens circuit (LEC)
A zoom ring is attached to a fixed storage means such as a stored ROM.
KL data corresponding to the focal length set by (ZR)
Each correspond to the data from the code plate (FCD)
It is fixedly stored in advance at the address. Also, KB in the equation (5) is the reduction ratio μB in the camera body.
This data is fixedly determined according to
KB is held by the camera controller (111). Here, from the reading circuit (LDC) on the camera body side to the lens
Side lens circuit (LEC) via terminals (JB1) (JL1)
Then, the power supply is synchronized with the clock for synchronization via the terminals (JB2) (JL2).
Signal to start reading via terminals (JB3) (JL2)
Are sent respectively. Also read from the lens circuit (LEC)
Access to the take-up circuit (LDC) via terminals (JL4) (JB4).
KL is output in series. The terminals (JB5) (JL5) are the same
It is a common ground terminal. Lens circuit (LEC) via terminals (JB3) (JL3)
When a read start signal is input, the rotation setting of the zoom ring is set.
KL data corresponding to the focal length from the camera body
Clock pulse input via terminals (JB2) (JL2)
Output to the reading circuit (LDC) in series in synchronism with. Soshi
The reading circuit (LDC) outputs to the terminal (JB2)
Directly from the terminal based on the same clock pulse as the pulse.
Read column data and convert to parallel data. The camera controller (111) is from the reading circuit (LDC)
Based on the data KL and the data KB inside it, KL · KB =
K is calculated. The AF controller (113) is
Using the subject image data from the face circuit (112)
Defocus amount | ΔL | is calculated, and this defocus amount | Δ
L | and the data K from the camera controller (111)
Based on K · | ΔL | = N, the pulse to be detected by the encoder (ENC)
Calculate the number of cells. The AF controller (113) is the subject image
Depending on the defocus direction signal obtained using the data of
The motor (MO1) through the motor driver circuit (114)
Rotate clockwise or counterclockwise to turn the encoder (EN
Number equal to the calculated value N from C) to the AF controller (113)
Focusing lens (FL) when the pulse of
Is determined to have moved by the amount of movement Δd to the in-focus position,
Stop the rotation of the motor (MO1). In the above explanation,
Data KB is fixedly stored on the camera body (BD) side, and this data
The value of K = KL · KB was calculated by multiplying the data KB by the data KL from the lens, but the calculation of the K value is limited to the above method.
It is not specified. For example, if the KB values are different from each other,
A zoom lens can be attached to any of several camera bodies.
If it can be installed, the zoom lens (LZ) lens circuit (LE
From C), output data of K 1 = KL · KB 1 corresponding to the camera body having a specific KB value according to the set focal length.
On the other hand, in the camera body of this particular model,
The calculation of the data KB in the error (111) and KL / KB is unnecessary.
AF controller for data K 1 from the reading circuit (LDC)
Please enter it in (113) and what is the above specific KB value?
If the other camera has a different KB 2 (≠ KB 1),
The camera controller (111)
To have the data of KB 2 / KB 1 and perform the operation of K 2 = K 1 · KB 2 / KB 1 = KL · KB 2 to obtain KL · K
The value of B 2 may be obtained. Especially, the focusing lens (FL) is zoomed as described above.
Front group extension located in front of the lens (ZL)
In case of type zoom lens, Kop value is Kop = (f1 / f) ² (7) fl: The focal length of the focusing lens, and the KL or K value for one zoom lens
It varies very widely. In this case, store in the lens
Data KL or K is used as the data of the exponent part and the data of significant figures.
Data (for example, if it is 8-bit data, the upper 4 bits
To the exponent part and the lower 4 bits as the number of significant digits),
Of the data read by the reading circuit (LDC) of the camera body
Shift the lower 4 bits of data by the exponent data
Input to the camera controller (111)
Even if the value of L or K changes significantly, it is possible to cope with it sufficiently. It should be noted that the explanation of FIG.
In order to facilitate understanding of various functions and functions,
Device is shown to consist of a combination of circuit blocks.
However, in reality, the mechanism of those circuit blocks
As described below,
(Hereinafter referred to as a microcomputer). FIG. 2 schematically shows a circuit in the camera of this embodiment.
It is a block diagram. In Fig. 2, (MNS) is the power switch and (POR) is
Depending on the closing of the power switch (MNS), AF my
Reset controller (MC1) and control microcomputer (MC2)
This is a power-on reset circuit. (S1) is shutter release
Switch closed by pressing the button one step (half-press)
The operation of photometry and automatic focus adjustment by this closing
Is started. (S2) is the shutter release button 2
It is a switch that is closed by pressing a step (cut off).
The exposure operation is started by closing. (S4) is a film
It is a switch that closes when the winding of the film is completed. (MC2) is the camera controller (11
1) works, and the operation of the entire camera system
A microcomputer that controls the
Below, control microcomputer). At that terminal (I1)
The switch (S1) is connected, and the AND circuit is connected to the terminal (I2).
The switches (S2) and (S4) are connected via. (OS
C) is an oscillator circuit for the operation. (MC1) is shown in Fig. 1.
It functions as the AF controller (113) shown in
A micro controller that controls the automatic focusing operation in sequence
Computer (hereinafter referred to as AF microcomputer). Calculated
The focused focus adjustment status is indicated by the LED for display (LEDL) (LEDM) (LED
Viewfinder by illuminating either R)
Will be displayed within (SAF / M) is an automatic focusing mode (hereinafter referred to as AF mode
Manual focus adjustment mode (hereinafter referred to as non-AF mode)
It is a switch for switching to and from, and AF when closed
Mode, when it is open, it becomes nonAF mode, and its SAF
The / M signal is input to the terminal (PT6) of the control microcomputer (MC2)
You. Here, in the nonAF mode, the focus adjustment display
The FA mode, in which the lens is regarded as not moving, is also displayed.
There is a MANUAL mode that is not done. (SA / R)
Is an AF unit that performs shutter release after automatic focus adjustment is completed.
Switch (S2) even in the previous mode and before the completion of automatic focus adjustment
Shutter release mode that performs shutter release according to the closing of the shutter
A switch that selectively switches between the
AF priority mode and release priority mode
The SA / R signal is the control microcomputer (MC2) terminal (PT7).
Is input to (MDR2) is a motor for film winding and rewinding.
(MO2) is a driver circuit that controls the control microcomputer (MC
Rotation of motor (MO2) by MM and MN signals from 2)
The direction and the amount of rotation are controlled. MM, MN signal and motor
Table 1 shows the relationship with the operation of (MO2). (EDO) is the program mode / shutter speed priority mode
Exposure control such as mode / aperture priority mode / manual mode
Controls the manually selected mode among the modes
To the camera (MC2) and exposure by that mode
Shutter speed, aperture value, film sensitivity, dew required for control
Information such as output correction value is also transmitted to the control microcomputer (MC2)
It is an exposure control setting circuit for. (BS1) (BS2)
Data line. (LMC) is a photometric circuit whose ANI signal is the reference for A / D conversion.
Voltage, the VRI signal is an analog photometric signal, and
These are the control microcomputer (MC2) terminal (PT7) (PT
8) has been entered. (EXD) is the control microcomputer (MC2)
The proper exposure value (shutter speed, aperture value, etc.)
Is an exposure display circuit that displays
Line. (EXC) is performed in the control microcomputer (MC2)
Calculated proper exposure value (shutter speed, aperture value, etc.) and
Exposure control circuit that controls the exposure according to the set exposure value
And (BS4) is the data line. (FLS) is a circuit inside the electronic flash device attached to the camera
(Hereinafter referred to as the flash circuit), this circuit (FL
S) is the terminal (ST
1) (ST2) (ST3) (ST4) (ST5) and (GND)
Connected to the circuit on the camera side. This flash circuit (FL
The details of S) are shown in FIG. Figure 3 shows the flash circuit (FLS).
, (20) is the main switch, (22) is the power battery,
When the main switch (20) is closed, the power battery (22)
The voltage is boosted by the DC-DC converter (24) and
Supplied to the main capacitor (28) via the ode (26)
You. (GND) is the ground terminal. Mainly capacitors (2
The charge voltage of 8) is monitored by the charge monitor circuit (30).
When the voltage reaches a predetermined level, the charge completion detection circuit
The charge completion signal is output from (32), which is an AND circuit.
It is transmitted to the terminal (ST2) via (34). On the camera side
Via the terminal (ST1) after receiving this charge completion signal.
And outputs a light emission start signal, which trigger circuit
(36) is triggered and the SCR (38) becomes conductive, resulting in a flash discharge tube.
(40) emits light by the energy of the main capacitor (28)
Start to do. This light emission start signal is the light emission start monitor
It is also input to the channel (42) and this emission start monitor circuit (4
2) closes the AND circuit (34) when receiving the light emission start signal.
In the same way, it blocks the transmission of the charge completion signal to the terminal (ST2).
The correct exposure was reached by the photometric circuit (LMC) on the camera side.
When this is detected, the camera emits light to the terminal (ST3).
The stop signal is output and the light emission stop circuit (44) stops this light emission.
Upon receiving the signal, the flash discharge tube (40) stops emitting light. (45) is the focus from the electronic flash device when the subject is dark.
Closed to provide auxiliary lighting for detection of adjustment status
AF assist light switch, when it is closed the terminal (ST5)
It is possible to provide illumination for focus detection with auxiliary light from
The AF auxiliary light OK signal indicating and is output. And the camera
If this side determines that this auxiliary light is required, the terminal (ST
4) The AF auxiliary light emission signal is input to
LED (48) for auxiliary light is turned on.
It is. Returning to Figure 2, (Sx) is the camera sync
H, (FLB) is the light emission that controls the light emission time of the electronic flash device.
It is a control circuit. (LEC) and (LDC) are shown in Fig. 1, respectively.
Like the lens circuit inside the lens and the reading circuit inside the camera
When the lens is attached to the camera, both circuits are
(JB1) to (JB5) and (JL1) to (JL5)
Connected. In the figure, (VL) is the power supply and (RES) is the start of reading.
Signal, (CL) is clock pulse, (DATA) is data,
(G) indicates ground respectively. For the reading circuit (LDC)
Clock pulse from control microcomputer (MC2) pin (SCK)
Is input, and the reading circuit (LDC) is a control microcomputer.
Serial data output from pin (TXD) of (MC2)
Depending on the force signal, the lens data is input to that terminal (RXD).
Enter in serial. (FLM) is the CCD image sensor shown in Fig. 1, (IF1)
Is the interface circuit for driving the sensor, (MDR1) is the
This is equivalent to (114) in Fig. 1 and corresponds to the lens drive motor (MO1).
The driver circuit that controls the drive (ENC) is the same as in Fig. 1.
It is an encoder like. 4 and 5 show the control microcomputer (MC2) of FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows an operation. Below this floater
The operation of the system shown in FIG. 2 will be described based on
Before that, first, the names of the flags used in this embodiment and
The contents are shown in Tables 2 and 3. In Fig. 4, first, the switch (S1) is closed and the terminal
When an interrupt signal is input to (I1), the control microcomputer (MC2)
Start operation. First, in step S1, the release flag
Clear RLF. This flag indicates the shooting mode of the camera.
Continuous shooting (hereinafter called continuous shooting mode) and single shot
This is a flag used to distinguish (hereinafter referred to as single shooting mode).
You. Here, the continuous shooting mode means the switch (S2)
When it is ON, it means that you can take pictures continuously.
Allows you to take a picture with the switch (S2) turned ON once.
Mode. Next, in S2, control microcomputer (MC2) terminal
(Xout) to AF microcomputer (MC1)
Supply CK. Next, multiple serial input / output operations in S3
Repeatedly capture multiple data from the lens circuit (LEC)
Then, the conversion coefficient (KROM) and auxiliary light necessary for automatic focus adjustment
Data for correcting the in-focus position of the visible light and the light of the wavelength emitted by
(ΔIR), backlash data (BKLSH), AF (automatic
Focus adjustment) or FA (focus adjustment status display) focus detection
Open F value for AF to determine whether output calculation is possible
(AFAV0), lens attachment discrimination (LENSF), AF coupler
Presence or absence of axis (AFCF), whether the lens can detect focus (FA
Save each signal of ENL) in the memory in the control microcomputer (MC2)
Keep it. In step S4, setting data for exposure control etc. is set.
Data from the exposure control value setting circuit (EDO) that outputs the data.
Capture data. This includes exposure data and single shots
Includes different continuous shooting modes. Control microcomputer in S5
Set the AFS signal output from the (MC2) terminal (PT1) to "Low".
To This is the interrupt pin (INT of the AF microcomputer (MC1)
The signal is input to 1) and the AF
The microcomputer (MC1) starts operation. Terminal (PT2) at the same time
The INREL signal from is set to "High". This is AF Myco
Is input to the interrupt pin (INT2) of the master (MC1)
However, since the interrupt takes on the falling edge, this interrupt
It does not take. In the flow chart of Fig. 4, S5 to S10, S22 to S3
There is a case where it comes to loop. Passed S5 during the loop
In this case, the AFS signal falls and the INREL signal rises many times.
But the AFS signal is already "Low" and the INREL signal is "Hig"
Since it is h ", there is no interruption to the AF microcomputer (MC1).
Absent. When the operation of the AF microcomputer (MC1) starts,
For the operation of your microcomputer (MC2) to AF microcomputer (MC1)
Setting data and data from the lens are sent serially
It is. The clock from the terminal (SCK) of the control microcomputer (MC2)
Control signal (MC2) terminal (T
XD) to serial 5 bits of 8-bit data, Table 4
Is output, and the AF microcomputer (MC1) terminal (T
XD) is input. Control microcomputer (MC2) is the terminal of AF microcomputer (MC1)
D from (P11) to terminal (PT4) of control microcomputer (MC2)
Start data output by seeing TRQ signal as signal of data request
I do. In the control microcomputer (MC2), this DTRQ signal goes to "L" at S6.
Wait until it becomes "ow", and if it becomes "Low", proceed to S7
Send. AESIO of S7 moves to AF microcomputer (MC1)
Create the data to determine the operation mode and serial data
Is shown in FIG. 5 as another routine.
is there. AESIO routine starting from step S29 in Fig. 5
At first, each signal of AFFL, RDY, DR, AFC, FAEN is included.
Clear the RAM of the fifth serial data of the control microcomputer (MC2).
A. The FAEN signal is determined in S30, S31, and S32. First S
At 30, see the LENSF signal of the data coming from the lens circuit (LEC)
Then, if LENSF = 0, there is no lens
For example, the FAEN signal remains "0" and the process proceeds to S33. Lens attached
If LENSF = 1, the FAENL signal is “1”
If the lens is capable of point detection, proceed to S32 and set the FAEN signal.
Set to “1” and if FAENL signal is “0”, FAEN signal is “0”
Will remain. Next, in S33 to S35, the AFC signal is determined. Terminal at S33 (PT
Check the SAF / M signal input to 6). The SAF / M signal is
Whether to automatically focus the camera lens from the outside
Use the switch to select the AF mode (camera
Detects the focus adjustment state of the shooting lens mounted inside the main body
Automatically adjusts the focus of the shooting lens according to the result.
If it is "Low", it will be non-AF mode. S33
If the SAF / M signal is “0” in, the AFC signal remains “0” in S36.
If it is "1", go to S34 and use the data A from the lens.
Watch the FCF signal. If the AFCF signal is "1" in S34, select the lens
Since there is a coupler axis for AF, the AFC signal in S35
Leave it at "1". That is, the coupler axis for AF on the lens
And the camera operation switch (SAF / M) is closed
The AFC signal becomes “1” when it is on the AF side, and otherwise
Set it to “0”. In S36 and S37, the camera drive mode is set to continuous shooting mode.
If so, set the DR signal to “1”, and if in single shooting mode, DR signal
Remains "0". Next, it is attached to the camera in S38 and S39.
Check the signal from the electronic flash device,
Is attached to the camera, AF auxiliary light switch (45)
If is included, the terminal (ST5) of the flash circuit (FLS) is
Enters the terminal (PT11) in the "High" state, and PT11 = in S38
If it is "Hight", set the AFFL signal to "1" in S39.
This is the AF auxiliary light emission for the AF microcomputer (MC1).
It becomes a signal that it is possible. (Details will be described later.) Set the RDY signal in S40 and S41. Charge of electronic flash device
When the power is completed, the flash circuit (FLS) terminal (ST2)
It is in the “High” state and this is input to the terminal (PT9).
If PT9 = "High" in S40, proceed to S41 and set the RDY signal.
Set to “1”. This signal also uses the auxiliary light described later.
Used for focus detection (hereinafter referred to as fill light AF mode)
You. Then, AF the data sent from the lens in S42
Register for serial transfer to send to the microcomputer (MC1)
Set on the star. In S43, C to start serial transfer
Set the SAF signal to "High". This is an AF microcomputer (MC1)
In response to the DTRQ signal of the serial transfer request from CS
When the AF signal becomes "High", the AF microcomputer (MC1) is serialized.
Start importing data. And 8 bits in S44
Transfer 5 bytes of data to the AF microcomputer (MC1). S45
Then, the CSAF signal is returned to "Low" and the serial transfer is completed. Next, return to the main routine in FIG.
Go to S8. Here, the photometric output from the photometric circuit (LMC)
Incorporates the ANI signal and VRI signal of the reference voltage for A / D conversion
The A / D conversion of the photometric output to obtain the data necessary for exposure calculation.
And prepare it. Next, in S9, for constant light and flash light
Exposure calculation. In the next S10, the control microcomputer (MC2)
Check if the terminal (I2) is "Low"
And see if it was released. Shutter is char
The release button is pressed while the switch (S4) is on.
If the switch (S2) is turned on when the switch is pressed in two steps, the terminal (I
2) should be “Low”. Terminal (I2) is "H"
If it is "igh", it means that the release has not been done, so proceed to S25. S
At 25, the release flag RLF is cleared. And
In step S26, the charge completion signal comes from the electronic flash device.
If there is a charge complete signal,
Goes to S27 to display data for flash light photography (EXD)
To S28, and if the charge completion signal is not received, proceed to S28
Optical shooting data is sent to the display (EXD) and displayed.
Move to 22. And in step S22, switch (S1)
Is the terminal (I1) set to "Low" with the switch closed?
If it is "Low", return to step S3.
Then, the same operation as described above is repeated. On the other hand, at step S22, the terminal (I1) is "High".
If it is determined that the AF microcomputer (MC1)
Stop the operation of. How to stop is AF My
Interrupt the pin (INT1) of controller (MC1) with AFS signal
You. Start of AF microcomputer (MC1) by AFS signal and AF
In order to distinguish it from the interruption for stop by S signal
In addition, the stop interrupt is restarted within 50 μs after falling.
To stand up (see FIG. 17 (B)). What
Flow only for metering When an interrupt occurs from S26 to S28
Since the AFS signal is “Low”, the stop signal is once “Hig
Release after "h", flow of release S11 ~ S21
The AFS signal is “High” when interrupted from
The stop signal is the trailing edge. To this interrupt
Therefore, the AF microcomputer (MC1) enters the stop mode and
The dynamic focus adjustment operation also stops. Exposure of the display (EXD) on the S24
The display is turned off and the control microcomputer (MC2) stops operating. Next, repeat photometry, and while the flow is looping
When released, the terminal (I2) becomes "Low". Then
After checking S10, proceed to S11. Next release flag
Check RLF and if it is 1, proceed to S26. This is a single-shot mode
If you have been released once in the card, you can release in S21 to S22.
Lag RLF is set to 1, release button 2 steps
With the switch (S2) turned on, press
Will not be released again. On the other hand, turn on the switch (S1)
If you turn off the switch (S2) while
From S10 to S25, release flag RLF is cleared
You. That is, when the switch (S2) is turned on again next time
Will be released from S11 to S12. Next, in S12, the AF priority input to the terminal (PT15) /
Check the release priority switching signal. AF here
Priority mode is automatic even if the switch (S2) is turned on.
Release the focus only after focusing is completed by adjusting the focus.
Release priority mode is the automatic focus adjustment.
If switch (S2) is closed even if it is out of focus
It is a mode to release any time. SA / R signal on S12
If it is "High" (SA / R = 1), it becomes AF priority mode and goes to S13.
Go ahead and check the AFE signal. This is the AF microcomputer (M
The signal output from the C1) terminal (P12)
When (MC2) detects the focus and determines that it is in focus, “Hig
It is a signal that becomes h ". S13 determines whether or not it is in focus.
Will be. And if it is in focus, the AFE signal is
It is "1" and goes to S14 to enter the release. AFE signal at S13
If is “0”, it goes to S26 and is not released. Meanwhile in S12
If in release priority mode, proceed to S14 and release
You. SA / R signal to check on S12 is attached to the camera
Signal according to the manual selection of the switch
This also works with a self-timer switch (not shown).
When the self-timer is activated, the AF priority mode
Even if there is a switch in the
Switch. Release priority mode during self-timer
It will be. When using the self-timer, S14 and S
Wait time for self-timer (not shown) during 15,
Wait for 10 seconds. In addition, the terminal (PT15) has a
The switch (SA / R) provided on the chassis is connected.
However, you can take this out of the camera body and
Roller (eg, controllable back cover) or Rimoco
You can leave it to the receiver for your computer. Next, in S14, is the terminal (PT2) for the AF microcomputer (MC1)?
Releases an INREL signal that the shutter has been released. INREL signal is AF
It is input to the connection terminal (INT2) of the microcomputer (MC1),
When this signal falls, an interrupt occurs and the AF
Con (MC1) jumps to the release routine. And automatic
Even if the lens is being driven during focus adjustment, stop the operation and
The indication is also erased and the release is completed. Next Sally in S14
AFS in preparation for the end of the operation and the start of operation of the AF microcomputer (MC1)
Keep the signal "High". Then move to step S15
A charge complete signal is being input from the flash circuit (FLS).
Whether it is input or not is determined by looking at the terminal (PT9).
If so, go to S16 to control the exposure control data for flash photography.
It must be sent to the circuit (EXC) and the charging completion signal must be input.
For example, in S17, set the exposure control data for the constant light to the exposure control circuit (EX
Send to C). Then, the exposure control operation is started in S18. When the exposure control operation is completed, the film is automatically wound in S19.
Perform a motion. Then, the release button described above in S20 and S21
Set Lag RLF to "1" in single shooting mode and proceed to S22.
No. And the switch (S1) is still closed and controlled
If the terminal (I1) of the microcomputer (MC2) is "Low", step
Go to S3 to capture data and perform calculation / display operations.
If the switch (S1) is not closed, return the above-mentioned
After moving to step S23 and performing the same operation as above,
The control microcomputer (MC2) stops operating. With the above, the control
This concludes the explanation of the flow of the icon (MC2). FIG. 6 shows the interface circuit (IF1) of this embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing details of the embodiment. This circuit is explained below.
The operation will be described together with the operation. A switch that is closed by pressing the shutter release button one step.
ON of the switch (S1) is detected by the control microcomputer (MC2).
Then, the AF controller responds to the signal from the control microcomputer (MC2).
The icon (MC1) starts the focus adjustment operation. First, the IOS signal from the AF microcomputer (MC1) goes low.
From the AF microcomputer (MC1) to the interface circuit (IF
1) In the direction in which the signals of NBφ to NB3 are output toward
The door opens. And CCD image from AF microcomputer (MC1)
The pulse-shaped integration clear signal ICG of the sensor (FLM) is NB2
It is output as a signal, which allows the CCD image sensor (F
Each pixel of LM) is reset to the initial state and CCD
Brightness monitor circuit (MC) built in the image sensor
The output AGCOS is reset to the power supply voltage level. AF
At the same time, the microcomputer (MC1) receives a "Hig" from the terminal (NB5).
The shift pulse generation enable signal SHEN of h "level is output.
Then, as soon as the integration clear signal ICG disappears, the CCD image
Integration of photocurrent starts at each pixel in the image sensor (FLM)
At the same time, the output AGCOS of the brightness monitor circuit (MC) is
CCD image starts to decrease at a speed according to the image brightness
Reference from the reference signal generation circuit (RS) built into the sensor
The signal output DOS is kept at a constant reference level. AGC control
Roller (406) compares AGCOS with DOS and
How much AGCOS is against DOS within 100 msec.
Depending on how low it is,
Control the gain. In addition, the AGC controller (406) is
After the rear signal ICG disappears, AGCOS responds to DOS within a predetermined time.
When it detects that the voltage has dropped below a predetermined level,
Output "High" level TINT signal. This TINT signal is
Shift through AND circuit (AN) and OR circuit (OR1)
It is input to the pulse signal output circuit (410) and responds to this.
A shift pulse SH is output from the lever circuit (410).
Also, the TINT signal passes as an NB4 signal through the OR circuit (OR2).
Taken into the AF microcomputer (MC1), the AF microcomputer (MC1)
This signal informs the completion of integration of the CCD image sensor.
You. This shift pulse SH is applied to the CCD image sensor (FLM)
When input, the photocurrent integration by each pixel ends,
The CCD image sensor shift resists the charge according to the integral value.
Data is transferred in parallel to the corresponding cells of the data. On the other hand, AF My
Based on the clock pulse CL from the controller (MC1),
180 ° out of phase from the sensor drive pulse generation circuit (412)
Two sensor drive pulses φ1 and φ2 are output, and CCD
Input to the image sensor (FLM). CCD image
The sensor (FLM) uses φ out of these sensor drive pulses.
In synchronization with the rising edge of 1, the power of each pixel of the CCD shift register is
Form the image signal by discharging the load one by one from the end in series
OS signals are sequentially output. This OS signal is the corresponding pixel
The lower the incident light intensity is, the higher the voltage becomes.
Road (414) subtracts this from the reference signal DOS above,
(DOS-OS) is output as a pixel signal. In addition, clear integration
After the disappearance of the signal ICG, the TINT signal is not output and the specified time elapses.
If it does, the AF microcomputer (MC1) will change from the terminal (NBφ) to “Hig
The h "level shift pulse generation command signal SHM is output.
Therefore, a predetermined time has passed after the integration clear signal ICG disappeared.
Even if the AGC controller (406) outputs "High" level TIN
If the T signal is not output, this shift pulse generation instruction
In response to the command signal SHM, the shift pulse generation circuit (410)
Generates a shift pulse SH. On the other hand, in the above operation, the AF microcomputer (MC1) is the CCD
For the 7th to 10th pixels of the image sensor
Sample hold when the corresponding pixel signal is output
Output signal S / H. This part of the CCD image sensor is dark
An aluminum mask is applied for the purpose of removing the output component, and the CCD
The light receiving pixels of the image sensor are in a light-shielded state.
It is the part that on the other hand. By the sample hold signal,
The peak hold circuit (416) is a CCD image sensor
Keep the difference between the output OS and DOS corresponding to the mimask part,
This difference output and the pixel signal are sent to the variable gain amplifier (408).
Is entered. And the variable gain amplifier (408) is
Signal and its difference output is controlled by the AGC controller (406).
Amplify with the gain that is controlled, and the amplified output is A / D converted
Pixel signal data after A / D conversion by the device (418)
Then, it is taken into the AF microcomputer (MC1). When the pixel signal data is captured, the AF microcomputer (MC
The signal IOS from 1) becomes “High”, and the interface
From the circuit (IF1) to the AF microcomputer (MC1) NBφ ~ NB
The gate opens in the direction where the 3 signal is output. A / D conversion circuit
A / D conversion of (418) is performed with 8 bits, but AF myco
The upper and lower 4 bits are transferred to the master (MC1).
The switching timing of the upper and lower 4 bits is EOC
It is done by signals. The EOC signal is the same as the TINT signal or
Or is taken by the circuit (OR2), and AF myco as NB4 signal
Input to the master (MC1). AF microcomputer (MC1) is this NB
Depending on the timing of the “High” and “Low” states of the four signals
Pixel signal data will be fetched from NBφ to NB3.
Also, the pixel signal data is taken in from NBφ to NB3.
Is started from the AGC controller (406) before the
Data is also taken in. This AGC data is
As will be described later, it is used as a judgment level. In addition,
Output from the terminal (NB1) of the AF microcomputer (MC1)
The Sφ signal is used to initialize the CCD image sensor,
Signal for switching between normal operation for integrating the subject light
It is. After this, the AF microcomputer (MC1)
Are sequentially stored in the internal memory.
When the data corresponding to the pixel is saved, it is used
The amount of defocus and its direction according to a predetermined program.
While calculating and displaying them on the display circuit,
Drive the lens drive device according to the amount and direction of defocus.
Move to adjust the focus of the taking lens. In this embodiment, the product of the CCD image sensor (FLM)
Minutes, data dump, and focus detection calculation are repeated
The accuracy is improved. 7 to 16 show the operation of the AF microcomputer (MC1).
It is a flowchart. First, this flow is shown in Tables 5-1, 2 and 3.
-Indicate the flags used in the chart. There are four starting points for the operation of the AF microcomputer (MC1).
There is an entrance. In other words, when the power is turned on, that is, the AF camera shown in FIG.
When the RES signal arrives at the terminal (CLR1) of the icon (MC1), it starts
"RESET" (step # 1 in Figure 7)
AF operation (automatic focus adjustment) from the terminal (PT1) of the icon (MC2)
Operation) or FA operation (focus detection operation)
The AFS signal is input to the pin (INT1) of the AF microcomputer (MC1).
"INT1S" started by the
# 8), AF from the control microcomputer (MC2) terminal (PT2)
Issued to the microcomputer (MC1) to inform the release
The INREL signal is input to the AF microcomputer (MC1) terminal (INT2).
"INT2S" that starts when the
Step # 27), the PS signal from the encoder (ENC) is AF
By inputting to the terminal (INT3) of the icon (MC1)
This is the "INT3S" (step # 252 in Fig. 16) to start.
Hit four of these. Main flow of automatic focus adjustment operation
The routine starts from “INT1S” in step # 8 of FIG.
Step # 33 “AF START” in FIG. 9 and step 10 in FIG.
Go through “CDINTS” on page # 44 and follow step # 86 on FIG.
It flows to "MAIN1". There are 3 main categories from "MAIN1"
And started from "LOWCON" in step # 165 in Figure 13.
When the contrast of the subject is low
Start with the flow and "LSAVE" in step # 238 of Figure 14.
Auxiliary light AF mode (when focus detection is too dark and
A mode for illuminating the subject with the LED (48) for auxiliary light and detecting the focus.
Flow) and step # 91 in Figure 11
The contrast of the subject starting from "NLOC1" is high enough
This is the flow for normal AF mode. Also with a subroutine
Control starting with "SIOSET" in step # 241 of Fig. 15
Input and process serial data from your microcomputer (MC2)
Flow and the "CKLOCK" of step # 196 in Figure 14
There is a flow for determining the lens end position starting from
You. In the following, based on this flow chart,
Automatic focus adjustment operation (hereinafter referred to as AF operation) and focus detection operation
The work (hereinafter referred to as FA operation) will be explained. First, the power is turned on in response to the closing of the power switch (MNS).
The reset signal RES is output from the on-reset circuit (POR).
This reset signal causes the control microcomputer (MC2) to reach a specific number.
Start moving from the ground. At the same time as the control microcomputer (MC2)
The clock pulse CK is output from the terminal (Xout). this
Is input to the pin (Xin) of the AF microcomputer (MC1). control
Reset under the clock pulse CK from the microcomputer (MC2)
When the input signal RES is input to the terminal (CLR1), the AF microcomputer
(MC1) starts from "RESET" in step # 1.
Step # 1 is all flags used in the flowchart
You have cleared all of Gu (Tables 5-1, 2 and 3). Each
The lag is set to "0" in the initial state. Step
From control # 2, control microcomputer (MC2) to AF microcomputer (M
C1), to stop AF or FA operation,
The stop signal as described above is output, but this stop command
When the decree comes in, go through this step # 2. Step # 2 (hereinafter "step" is omitted) is the end
The terminal (ST4) signal input to the child (P13) is in the "Low" state
The illumination by the auxiliary light LED (48) is turned off.
This is the switch (S
1) is released to emit light when the focus detection operation is stopped
This is to cancel. # 3 is the focus in AF or FA operation
The adjustment status display or defocus direction display is turned off.
Here, set terminals "P32" to (P30) to "High" respectively.
Output and erase, but this is to put each terminal in input mode
It is done by. Even if you turn off the display in this way,
The output state that was previously stored is stored in the output port register.
If you put this port in output mode,
The contents can be displayed again. We will use this later. In # 4, the lens is stopped. In addition, here
I will not put it. This is when the AF microcomputer (MC2) is not operating
Makes it relatively easy to move with your hands without braking the lens.
In addition, I was thinking about saving electricity. AF microcomputer
(MC2) to the driver circuit (MDR1)
Control motor drive signals MC, MR, MF, MB
As shown in Table 6, the terminal (PO2)
By setting the signals MR, MF, and MB of ~ (PO0) to the "High" state,
The electric brake is not applied and the motor (MO1) is de-energized.
The lens stops. In # 5, during release operation or auxiliary light AF mode
When a stop command comes from the control microcomputer (MC2),
To release these conditions in the future, release flag (No. 5-1
Release F in the table and auxiliary light mode flag (in Table 5-2)
This is a step of clearing the fill light mode F). # 6
Determines the interrupt state for the start of the next flow
The operation of the AF microcomputer (MC1)
After stopping, from INT1S of # 8 or INT of # 28
It allows starting from 2S. But in fact, the turtle
The shutter release button (not shown)
The switch (S1) in Fig. 2 is closed and the control microcomputer
(MC2) interrupts INT1 and the shutter release
Switch (S2) is closed by pressing the button
The release interrupt is applied to T2.
Therefore, the next flow chart starts with # 8 “INT1S”
become. In # 7, the AF microcomputer (MC1) goes into stop mode
enter. What is stop mode? The AF microcomputer (MC1)
To stop the operation. At this time,
As for the state, only P13 is "Low" and the others are "High".
The LED for light illumination (48) goes off, and the LED for display (LEDL) (LED
M) (LEDR) is also off, and the lens is
The interface circuit (IF1) is stopped
State. In this state, the next control microcomputer (MC2)
Waiting for an interrupt start from the
You. Next is the second entrance to the above-mentioned flowchart #
Move on to the explanation of "INT1S" in 8. Split from this "INT1S"
Included start during all flow of AF microcomputer (MC1)
Interrupt is not disabled and interrupts at any time
Accept only. This entrance serves three interrupts.
doing. One is AF or FA operation start, the second is AF
Or, stop the FA operation, and the third is the focus adjustment state immediately after the release.
There are state display return operation and operation in transfer mode. these
The three distinctions will be described. The first and second distinction is the edge
It is distinguished by the input signal to the child (INT1). Sand
Then, as shown in Fig. 17 (A), AF or AF is used to start FA operation.
S signal falls from "High" to "Low", "Low" is 50μs
It is necessary to continue above. About stopping AF or FA operation
As shown in Fig. 17 (B), the AFS signal changes from "High" to "Low".
After falling to, within 50μs from "Low" to "High"
Need to get up to. Third action
Use the flag to distinguish from the first normal AF or FA operation.
I use it. If a release interrupt described later comes, release
Release the release flag (release F) in the flow
In the start of the next "INT1S"
It is distinguished by checking whether there is. Including these
First, description will be sequentially given from # 8. # 8, INT at the start
Disable interrupts other than 1 and INT2. Forbidden
Is the event counter interrupt of INT3 and the flowchart
Although not shown above, the blinking period of the display LED is determined.
There is an internal timer interrupt. # 9 is using
I am about to clear the flag, but AFSINR from # 15
Two flags that are used as the previous state in the
Wachi scan prohibition flag (scan prohibition F in Table 5-1)
And the previous low control flag (previous low control F in Table 5-1)
Has not cleared. Do not clear the scan prohibit flag
The reason is that the switch (S1) is turned off even in continuous shooting mode.
Unless you use the single shot mode, the
Stroke is sufficient for focus detection, and the defocus amount can be calculated.
Have you done it, or did a low-conscan once
I didn't let a new low contrast scan
I have left this flag in place. In addition, last time low confra
It is AFS after release starting from # 15 that does not clear the group
In the “AFSINR”, which is an interrupt flow due to a signal,
If the switch (S1) remains on after the release,
The display of the focus detection calculation result before the release is restored.
Not cleared to keep it. That is, release
In the middle, the LED defocus direction display is turned off once.
And when the release operation is finished, it will be displayed again
Therefore, the LED blinks with low contrast.
Leave a flag to determine if it was showing
Put it down. At the next # 10, I waited for 50μs and entered "INT1S".
Whether the interrupt was an AF or FA stop interrupt #
I'm going to see it at 11. Here, the AF microcomputer pin (MC1) terminal (I
If the signal in NT1) is as shown in Fig. 17 (A)
For example, since the AFS signal is "Low", proceed to # 12 and proceed to Fig. 17
If it is a signal like (B), the AFS signal becomes "High".
Proceed to the # 2 stop mode process flow "STPMD" A
The operation of the F microcomputer (MC1) stops. Release at # 12
Whether to proceed to the subsequent AFS signal interrupt flow "AFSINR"
Distinguish whether it is due to the interrupt of the first AFS signal. sand
If the release flag (release F) is on, #
Proceed to 15 “AFSINR” and the release flag (release F)
If not, proceed to the next step # 13. AF in # 13
Initialize each pin of the microcomputer (MC1).
That is, the auxiliary light emission terminal in auxiliary light AF mode (P13)
Only "Low" and other terminals "High". Also
The AF microcomputer (MC1) is now in stop mode
From the state where it is included, start this step by interrupt start
Each terminal remains in the same state when
Only the terminal (P13) remains "Low" and the others remain "High".
You. Next, in # 14, do not clear in # 9
Clear the stop flag and the previous low-con flag again.
Good. Then proceed to # 33 “AF START”. After this
The point adjustment state is detected and the lens is driven according to the result.
The focus adjustment status display. What is the focus adjustment status display?
LL and LR of input signal of indicator LED (LEDL) (LEDM) (LEDR)
Is “High”, LM is “Low” and the green LED is turned on.
Yes, if you see this display and close the switch (S2),
Performs autofocus with (S1) and (S2) closed
If the focusing operation is completed, the control microcomputer (MC
2) starts the release operation and at the same time AF microcomputer (MC1)
The interrupt signal INREL that informs you that you have released
Is output. The AF microcomputer (MC1) has a pin (INT2).
Since this is received, a release interrupt is applied. This is
This is the flow starting from "INT2S" in # 27 of FIG. In # 27, interrupts other than INT1 and INT2 are first disabled.
Next, at # 28, set the signal from the terminal (ST4) to "Low" to assist
The light illumination is turned off. This is only in release priority mode
This is a necessary step that is not necessary in AF priority mode.
You. Because in AF priority mode
This is because the auxiliary lighting is already off.
# 29 is also for lenses that are required only in release priority mode
This is the step to stop the motor (MO1). here
Then, the motor (MO1) is not braked. this
Is in focus state when in release priority mode
The release is not always done, but the release is made before that.
It is possible that the lens moves toward the in-focus position.
When the shutter is released while the
Apply a brake on (MO1) to stop the lens and release.
Rather than stopping without braking, inertia
Move the lens with and move it slightly near the in-focus position.
It's often the case that you can get good photos when you are released.
That's why. In the next # 30, focus adjustment status display or default
Turn off the waste direction display. This is a single-lens reflex camera
While the shutter is released, the mirror will rise and the viewfinder will
It's black. Even if only the display is attached here, the meaning is
Not only that, but during film exposure, unnecessary light is emitted from the camera.
This is because it is not desirable that it is output internally. Next, at # 31, set the release flag (release F) to "1".
Then, the release is left as a flag. later#
At 32, INT1 or INT2 interrupt wait. Continue here
Then, when the release interrupt comes, from "INT2S" of # 27 again.
Begin. Switch with the switch (S1) in Fig. 2 closed.
This is the case when the opening and closing of the chi (S2) is repeated,
It says that the lens is fixed at the in-focus position without being driven.
This is the same as repeating the release with the AF locked.
is there. After closing the switch (S2) and releasing,
If the switch (S1) remains closed, the control microcomputer (MC
As shown in the flow chart in 2), the AFS signal is again sent to the AF controller.
It enters the icon (MC1) and INT1 interrupt occurs. Do
And the flow from "INT1S" of # 8 is the release this time.
Since the flag (release F) is set to 1, # in FIG.
Proceed to 15 “AFS INR”. Steps from # 15 will come later
explain. Fifth after closing the switch (S2) and releasing
Open the switches (S2) and (S1) together as shown in the flow chart.
If you release it, the control microcomputer (MC2)
AF microcomputer for AFS signal for stop of icon (MC1)
(MC1) is entered and INT1 interrupt occurs. After that
AF microcomputer (MC1) is in stop mode
Enter and wait for the next interrupt again. Start interrupt by AFS signal after release here
Enter the description of the flow. The entrance is "INT1" of # 8 in Fig. 7.
"S", but this time the release flag RLF is 1.
Therefore, branch off at # 12 and proceed toward "AFSINR" at # 15. This
First of all, this release has passed this release
Reset the flag (release F). Then control with # 16
Input serial data from the microcomputer (MC2). here
Inputting serial data with the AF microcomputer (MC1)
To check if the operating mode of has changed
is there. The flow coming to "AFSINR" starting from # 15 is
This flow comes after the release, but this release
Operation mode (that is, AF mode / FA mode)
Mode / MANUAL mode or AF mode.
Mode / separate shooting mode)
The behavior must be changed according to. # 16 is this model
To input the information of the mode from the control microcomputer (MC2)
It is a step. This # 16 is a subroutine of Figure 15
The flow of "SIOSET" starts from # 241. here
Checks each mode and operates the mode flags
You. First of all, in # 241, go to the control microcomputer (MC2).
Set the DTRQ signal of the child (P11) to “Low” and set the serial data
Request. Then, the control microcomputer (MC2) sees the DTRQ signal.
It sends serial data as shown in Table 4. AF My
On the controller (MC1) side, input this serial data with # 242.
Then, set the DTRQ signal to "High" in # 243. Serial communication
The data sent by the communication is AF open F value AFAV0,
Drive defocus amount-pulse count conversion coefficient KRO
M, AF correction data for auxiliary light ΔIR,
Data BKLSH for anti-crash correction, auxiliary light OK signal AFFL,
Flash charging completion signal RDY, continuous shooting / single shooting mode signal D
R, AF coupler with axis lens signal AFC, FA enable / disable signal FAEN
9 kinds of. Each information is sent by serial communication
Then, it is saved in the RAM of the AF microcomputer (MC1), and if necessary
Then, the contents of the RAM will be referred to. Use of each information
Regarding the use, we will explain it later in the flowchart explanation
I do. From # 244, check each mode. For # 244, for AF
Check the open F value AFAV0. Used as a light receiving element for focus detection
There is a limit of possibility, and if the open F value of the lens is small, the exit pupil
The incident light to the light receiving element for focus detection is eclipsed, and a correct focus is obtained.
The detection calculation cannot be performed. If the focus cannot be detected
A set of converter lenses etc. even if no body lens is made
The focus detection limit F value may be exceeded due to the alignment.
There is also. For example, the focus detection limit of the light receiving element for focus detection
If the field F value is 7.0, the lens with an open F value of 5.6 for AF is in focus
Detectable, but with a double teleconverter attached to it
Then, if the F value becomes 11.2 and focus detection becomes impossible,
That is what it means. The open F value for AF here is the lens
Although it is an F value when the aperture of the zoom is not throttled,
A lens whose F-number changes due to zooming and focusing
In the case of, the light receiving element for focus detection is not removed
Zooming, because it is information to judge that
If the F value changes due to focusing, the smallest opening
Free F value is included. In # 244, open F value for AF AFAV0 is F value
If it is larger than 7.0, proceed to # 251, AF mode
Set the flag (AF.F in Table 5-1) to "1" and then use # 250 to FA
Also set the mode flag (AF.F in Table 5-1) to “1” and set the MANUAL mode.
Set the flag state that it has become a mode and go to # 16 in FIG.
Go. Open F value for AF If FAV0 is smaller than 7.0, set to F value
As for the lens that can detect focus, proceed to # 245.
No. With # 245, it is possible to check whether AF mode has been used so far.
To check. If the AF mode flag is "0"
Since it was in AF mode, proceed to # 246 and press "1".
If it is not AF mode, it means FA mode or MANUAL
Check the mode. # 246 has AF coupler shaft
In the step of checking if there is an AFC signal,
If it is “1”, there is an axis, so proceed in AF mode as it is, and at “0”
If there is no axis there is no automatic focus adjustment
Go to # 247 and set "1" to the AF mode flag. AF power
The puller axis is the distance from the motor (MO1) in the camera body.
Shaft saw for transmitting power to the focusing mechanism.
And In # 248 of Fig. 15, it is checked whether or not the lens can detect the focus.
If the focus is detected and the focus can be detected, set the FA flag (FA.F) to "0".
Then the FA mode is set, and if focus detection is not possible, set the FA flag to "1".
And the MANUAL mode is determined with the AF flag "1".
become. Here, when FAEN = 1, the camera body
The lens is attached to the
It's that. Other than this, FAEN becomes "0"
I have. Lenses that cannot detect focus have a small F value for AF.
A lens such as a reflective telephoto lens that cannot detect the focus even if the
Shift lens and burr soft
It is a special lens such as a lens. This subroutine
So, I have not seen the change from FA mode to AF mode, but this
Will be seen in step # 86 in Figure 11 below. Now, the subroutine in Fig. 15 returns to the next step.
Go to # 17. Check whether the AF mode is selected here,
Mode, step # 19, if not AF mode #
Check whether it is FA mode at 18, and if it is not FA mode,
If so, go to the # 36 “MANUAL” flow. In # 19, see the previous status to restore the display
# 20 if the state before the start was low contrast
To restore the low contrast display. Focus on the low-con display
Three LEDs for adjustment status display (LEDL) (LEDM) (LEDR)
Turn on and off both ends (LEDL) (LEDR) at 2Hz.
It is a display that returns and blinks. Low contrast
If so, the focus adjustment state or the direction display is restored at # 21. Les
The display contents up to the time before the Leeds are saved in the display register.
Since the boat is in output mode, the previous display
Returns. With # 22, depending on the AF mode flag (AF.F)
To check if it is in AF mode and not in AF mode.
If in FA mode, go to # 39 “CDINTA” and repeat focus.
Perform point detection. Therefore, in FA mode, the second
If the switch (S1) in the figure is on, focus detection continues and
It means to show. In AF mode, DR signal with # 23
See if the single-shot mode or continuous-shot mode based on
If there is a single shooting mode, use # 25 to send the AFE signal from the terminal (P12).
Set to “High”. This signal indicates that the autofocus operation has ended.
Information that the focus is in focus and the release is possible
Is to inform the control microcomputer (MC2). Shutter release button is pressed up to 2 steps
If the control microcomputer (MC2) is in AF priority mode,
If this signal is "High", release is permitted and "L"
If it is ow ", the release is disabled.
If it is a mode, after focusing and releasing once, it is as it is
While pressing the release 1-step (switch (S1) ON)
If the interrupt such as AFS signal is not input, “AFSIN from # 15
Follow the flow of "R", and the AFE signal becomes "High" at # 25
Then, if you change the position of the subject as it is, even if it is out of focus
Release can be done even in a state. At this time, in the next # 26
Release interrupt or stop of AF microcomputer (MC1)
The lens is driving because we are waiting for an interrupt
Absent. This sequence is called "AF lock"
Can be. On the other hand, if it is the continuous shooting mode, proceed from # 23 to # 24
Check if it is in mode. In auxiliary light AF mode
If so, it is in continuous shooting mode and auxiliary light AF mode
Therefore, automatic focus adjustment and release are allowed only once.
If you release, the next release and automatic focus adjustment are prohibited.
You. Therefore, do not set the AFE signal to "High" and proceed to # 26.
No. In continuous shooting mode other than fill-in AF mode,
Proceed to "CDINTA" to enter the next focus detection. The flow starting from "AF START" of # 33 in Fig. 9 is # 14
Fly away from. In # 33, the subroutine "SIOS
ET "is called. AF microcomputer (MC1) operation star
Various data from the control microcomputer (MC2)
Receive and decide the operation mode. Mode decided at this time
Is automatically stored in the mode register RG in the AF microcomputer (MC1).
Is written to. This register RG will change mode later.
It is for checking whether or not. # 34, #
In 35, check the operation mode, AF mode / FA mode
If it is neither MAMUAL mode, proceed to # 36.
In # 36, the driver circuit (MDR
Signal for 1) MR, MF, MB are all set to "High" for lens
Stop the motor (MO1). # 1 is INT1, INT2
Stop all other interrupts and loop to # 33 and repeat
You. When in AF or FA mode, proceed to # 38 and CCD image
Sensor (FLM) is initialized and the sensor is warmed up.
Keep up. Use # 39 to set the pin (P20) IOS signal
The interface circuit (IF1) is set to “Low” by A
Set to the mode to input the signal from F microcomputer (MC1)
And integrate the output of CCD image sensor (FLM)
It is also to set the mode for doing. And the second
Go to # 44 in Figure 10. Here, the 1-cut shot flag (first
5-1 1-cut shotF), that is, integration time exceeds 50ms
Clear the flag that indicates whether or not Terminal at # 45
Set the AFE signal output from (P12) to "Low". This
This is because the loop repeats after focusing
You. This is a signal that the AFE signal becomes "High" when it is in focus.
Since it is a No., it is set to "Low" in preparation for the next calculation.
You. Next, at # 46, output the NB2 signal from the terminal (P23) and CC
Start integration of D image sensor (FLM). # 47 later
To correct lens movement during focus detection calculation and integration
Read the lens drive pulse count value EVTCNT of
Save it to T1. # 48, CCD image sensor (FL
Set half of the maximum integration time of 100 ms of M) to 50 ms.
In Figure 9, parallel to "CDINTA", starting from # 40 "CD
There is an INT and there is another flow up to # 53.
In the flow for the function called "integral integration"
Details of this will be described later. Continue from # 48 to "TINTφ" from # 55. # 55 in
Allows all interrupt routines. # 56 in
Checks the NB4 signal coming into the terminal (P25) and
If w ", the CCD image sensor (FLM) is the brightness of the subject
Since it is a signal that the integration according to
Go to "CDINT2". If "High", integration continues
Therefore, proceed to # 57 and set the maximum integration time that was initially set.
Check if has passed. That is, # 48
50ms set in #, 40ms set in # 53, or
Whether 50ms of # 61 or 150ms of # 62 set earlier has passed
Look, if not, go back to # 56 and repeat the loop
You. After the maximum integration time, proceed to # 58. Where 1-cut sh
If the ot flag (1-cut shotF) is not "1", proceed to # 59.
Set "1" to this flag. # 1-cut shot when going to 63
Since the flag is "1", after passing through this # 59
Or, if you passed # 49. # 60 with 200ms flag
Check if (200msF in Table 5-2) is "1",
If it is not "1", the maximum integration time is usually 100ms.
Therefore, the remaining 50ms of the integral 50ms set in # 48 is set in # 61.
And go back to # 56 to check the NB4 signal. # 60 in 2
When the 00ms flag is “1” (This is in the later flow
Maximum integral only under special conditions
If the time is set to 200ms) is the product set in # 48
Set the remaining 150ms for 50ms and go back to # 56 to get the NB4 signal
Check. Sufficient output from CCD image sensor (FLM)
If you get up to, go from # 56 to # 64. Output is enough here
If the maximum integration time has passed
It is time to move from # 58 to # 63. #
In 58, the 1-cut shot flag is "1" this time, so be sure to #
Proceed to 63, and from the terminal (P21) to the interface circuit (IF
Output the forced integration stop signal NB0 to 1). And # 64
To "CDINT2". The steps from # 64 to # 67 are
This is the flow of “convolution integration”, and the explanation will be given later. # 68 prohibits interrupts other than INT1 and INT2
However, this is an interruption when data is taken in after this.
Because I try not to get in the wrong timing when I enter
It is. INT1 and INT2 interrupts from the beginning of the main flow
Don't ban it as it will start. # 69 was previously in CCD integration
When the auxiliary light LED (48) is on, the terminal (P13) ST
4 The signal is turned "Low" and turned off. # 70 is for the terminal (P20)
Interface circuit (IF1) with IOS signal set to "High"
Is switched to the data output mode. I.e.NB4-N
The B0 signal becomes a line for data transfer and
Data from the source circuit (IF1) to the AF microcomputer (MC1)
Will be able to do it. 8-bit data as data
Data is sent, but in 4-bit parallel from NB3 to NB0,
It is sent in two steps, and the timing is taken by NB4
When it is “High”, the upper 4 bits data is NB4 is “Low”
Sometimes the lower 4 bits of data are sent. AF microcomputer (MC
1) recreates the data sent by dividing it into upper and lower
Take in. So, first, AF from the interface circuit (IF1)
AGC data is sent to the microcomputer (MC1) as shown in Fig. 6.
Numerical value of gain determined in AGC controller (406)
(1 time, 2 times, 4 times or 8 times)
AGC data) is sent, and this is AFed at # 71 in Fig. 10.
Take it into the microcomputer (MC1). By the way, CCD image set
Output of these data after the integration of the sensor (FLM) is completed.
The interface timing (IF1) determines when to come
The AGC data was acquired immediately after the integration was completed.
I have to put it in. AGC data is output for a certain time
And as soon as this is done, the CCD image sensor (FLM)
Pixel data is also sent at a fixed timing. This
Just 72 hours after capturing the AGC data of
As shown in, the lens drive pulse count at the end of integration
Read the value EVTCNT and save it in memory T2. Integration
It corresponds to # 47 at the beginning. Immediately after this, in # 73, the pixel image of the CCD image sensor (FLM)
Enter the data and save it in the memory of the AF microcomputer (MC1).
It is. The next # 74 is the lens that is driven while the lens is being driven.
Hits the end at infinity or the nearest end
Is a subroutine that checks
Is the closest end), the lens drive motor
Stop (MO1) or reverse drive.
For the subroutine "CKLOCK", see Fig. 13 later.
explain. In # 75, serial communication with the control microcomputer (MC2)
Receive data for driving the signal lens. # 33 in one
Even though I got the data once again, serial communication again here.
Believe that you don't go through # 33 in a repeating loop.
Therefore, if the conversion coefficient KROM for lens
Or (depending on the lens, focusing, zooming, etc.)
Depending on), the mode of microcomputer operation has changed
Then the data changes, so to see this repeatedly
There is a "SIOSET" on # 75. Then take # 76 and # 73
Using the CCD image sensor (FLM) data
Perform point detection calculation. The applicant is responsible for this method.
In the method described in JP-A-59-126517.
Although the focus amount DF is required, it is not related to the gist of the present invention.
Since it is a person in charge, the description thereof will be omitted. From # 77 to # 85, the brightness of the subject is above a certain level
Check the level of AGC data by checking whether it is also low
Deciding. Here, the brightness of the subject is below a certain level
The time is called low light. # 77 low light flag
Put "1" in (Low Light F in Table 5-2). # 78
If the electronic flash device is attached to the camera,
Sent by serial communication if the switch (44) is closed
Since the AFFL signal coming in is "1", proceed to # 80.
That is, if the auxiliary light emission enabled state is set,
AGC data is doubled in the mode of large integration time 100ms,
When it was 4 times or 8 times, it became a low light judgment and # 86 “MA
Go to "IN1" and pass # 80 when AGC data is 1x.
Then clear the low light flag to "0" at # 85 and go to # 86.
move on. In the mode where the maximum integration time is 200 ms, all are low.
It becomes a light and goes from # 80 to # 86. On the other hand, if the auxiliary light emission enabled state is not set,
Moves from # 78 to # 81 and the maximum integration time is 100ms
In case of AGC data is 4 times and 8 times, # 82, # 83,
# 86 results in low light judgment and 1x AGC data
When it doubles, it moves from # 82 or # 83 to # 85.
Clear the flag and go to # 86. Maximum integration time is 20
In 0ms mode, when AGC data is 2 times, 4 times, 8 times
Then, from # 84 to # 86, it became a low light judgment, and the AGC
When the data is 1x, go from # 84 to # 85 and roll with # 85.
Clear the flag and go to # 86. Auxiliary light here
Judgment of low light when light emission enabled state is set
However, it is 1 more than the low light judgment when it is not set.
It starts from a bright place. This is because the subject is
If it is untrusted and the brightness is low, focus detection cannot be calculated.
Great for giving up autofocus
You. That is, the auxiliary light emission enabled state is set
In that case, give up focus detection earlier when auxiliary light is not used.
Then, immediately enter the auxiliary light use mode to ensure focus detection.
The auxiliary light emission enabled state is not set.
Fara, focus detection only by outside light to the place where you can go,
Auto focus when low contrast and low brightness
In such a way that you can put the lens in and end without knotting
is there. In this embodiment, before giving up the focus detection,
In addition, the lens can be extended or retracted for one round trip scan.
I'm going to search for a position with contrast
I'm taking the way. From # 165 in Figure 13
It will be explained in the flow after "LOWCON". In this embodiment, the determination of the subject brightness is based on the AGC data.
However, this may depend on the integration time. For example,
Among the flags used in the example, CCD image sensor
When the integration time of (FLM) is 50ms or more, it is 1-cut sho
You may use the t flag. Now, we will explain about "MAIN1" from # 86 in Fig. 11 next.
However, from here, we start talking about lens drive processing. First
# 86 is the serial data obtained in # 75 and AF
Compare the mode that the icon (MC1) was operating, and
If the mode has changed, start again with # 33 “AF START”
You. That is, it was set after the last serial communication # 33.
Selected AF mode / FA mode / MANUAL mode, single shooting / continuous
The contents of register RG, which indicates the different shooting modes, and focus detection mode
Mode flag (AF mode flag, FA mode flag),
If it has changed by comparing with the flag (DR) of single shooting mode
It means to proceed to # 33. And this # 33
Then, the new mode is automatically written to the mode register RG.
Be included. In # 87, the focus detection operation mode using auxiliary light
Check whether it is turned on and use the auxiliary light
Mode (hereinafter referred to as fill light AF mode)
# 238 “LSAV” of the flow for focus detection in FIG.
Enter "E". How to enter this auxiliary light AF mode
Means that the subject has low contrast and low brightness.
This is the condition, so from # 165 “LOWCON” in Figure 13
I'll start from the low contrast flow that starts
You. If it is not in the auxiliary light AF mode in # 87, use the # 88
Check the flag (this time Low Con F in Table 5-1)
Whether or not the result of focus detection calculation is low contrast
If the contrast is low,
Move to the "LOWCON" flow. This time this # 88 comes out low
The Conflag is what is identified and created in # 76.
You. If the result of this operation is not low contrast, #
Go to 89 and check the AGC data entered in # 71 of Fig. 10.
If the AGC data is 1x, the 200ms flag is clicked with # 90.
Rear. This is the maximum integration time when it was dark
I mentioned that there is a state of 200ms mode, but it becomes 200ms mode.
If the AGC data is 1 time, the 200ms mode is set.
It is not necessary to keep it in 100ms mode with short maximum integration time.
This is because the integration time can be shortened if it is set in advance. Integral
When the time is 200 ms and the AGC data is 1 time, and the integration time is 100 m
The pixel output is almost the same as when the AGC data is doubled in s
Being able to see, movement of subject, turtle
Considering the camera shake of La, it is disadvantageous if the integration time becomes long.
If you can find the contrast of the subject,
Since the maximum integration time is 100ms,
You. The flow of "NLDC1" starting from # 91 is controlled by the subject.
The flow when the trust is found, in # 91, the scan
Set "1" to the disable flag. This is the control of the subject
If the last is low, look for a high contrast position.
Focus detection while moving the focusing lens.
Was called the Low Conscan,
If there is contrast in the subject, switch (S1) closes.
In this sequence of sequences during
Scanning is prohibited. Because you scan often
Then, it is difficult to use as an autofocus camera.
In addition to, was the contrast once found?
Focus detection continuously near the current lens extension position.
Even if it becomes low contrast when
It seems that there is a high probability that contrast will be found again, then
Immediately after the low contrast, the low contrast
It's said that scanning is counterproductive to focus detection.
It depends. In addition, this scan is prohibited
When you finish scanning once with low contrast
Because there is. In the flow from # 92 to # 101,
-When sufficient contrast is found during Conscan
Mainly represents the processing of. This is roughly divided
There are two cases, integration of CCD image sensor (FLM)
Divided when time exceeds 50 ms and when it does not
You. When the subject is dark such that the integration time exceeds 50 ms
When you find the contrast during low contrast scanning,
Stop the lens completely and then perform focus detection again.
Move the lens to the in-focus position according to the result of. Lens
Focus is not detected while moving. The reason for this is the integration time
When it starts to take longer, drive the lens
If so, the image of the subject flows out and the defocus amount is calculated
Because it will adversely affect Integration time becomes longer, and AG
If the C magnification increases, the CCD image sensor
The noise due to the dark output variation of the service (FLM) also increases,
If the image flows in the state of
Because it is. Therefore, if the integration time exceeds 50 ms,
When stopped without moving the focus while moving
It takes the method of focus detection by the value of only
Is called 1-cut shot mode, and a flag (first
The 1-cut shot flag in the 5-1 table is provided. This flag
Is already set in # 49 or # 59. Next
For a bright subject whose integration time does not exceed 50 ms
Find enough contrast during low contrast scan
Then, without stopping the lens, the contrast
Using that data, the focus detection calculation is performed,
The lens is driven to the resulting focal point. During this time,
The point detection calculation is repeated to drive the lens up to the in-focus position.
Always refresh and focus your momentum.
This is because focus is repeatedly detected during lens driving, so mult
This is called i shot mode. During low contrast scan
When it comes to focus detection without stopping the camera, CC
D image sensor (FLM) integration time and lens drive
The lens position is different from when the motion amount is obtained.
For the preparation for correcting this movement, see the “LOWCON” flag described later.
This is done in the row, and this is used to correct the amount of movement.
I do. The concept of this movement correction is described in JP-A-59
-68713 gazette, so details here
Is omitted. Next, look at the contrast from the low contrast scan.
However, even after starting the operation of the multi shot mode,
It is possible that the results of the trust will come out. In this case, low
Ignore the contrast results and use the low contrast
Focus point according to the drive amount set before
Drive the lens to the expected position. Contrast
It is driven by using only the output result. Loco
The decision to get out of trust is
Check the previous low-con flag (previous low-conn F in Table 5-1).
Check. With this flag, from # 165 in Figure 13
The flag set in the "LOWCON" flow of
This is set when the calculation result of is low contrast.
ing. On the other hand, being in # 92 means that
It means that there was contrast in the end, so #
At 92, if there was a 1 in the previous low-con flag,
Proceed to # 93 because you have come out of trust.
If the previous low control flag was “0”, control from the beginning.
As a place to go when there is a last and focus detection, #
Proceed from 92 to # 102. In # 93, the focus adjustment status display disappears.
You. Until now, the lens drive has been stopped with low contrast.
If it is in a state, the blinking display indicates that focus cannot be detected.
However, since there is contrast, I will erase it.
You. In # 94, as mentioned above, the 1-cut shot flag is
If so, you have to stop the lens, so proceed to # 95.
Only if the 1-cut shot flag is not on, low cons
Even if you are in a can, leave the lens unstopped and proceed to # 101.
No. In # 101, the previous low contrast flag, scan per scan
Lag (F per scan in Table 5-1)
Clear the lag (F during scanning in Table 5-1). This
It may have completed a low-conscan once, or
Reset the flag that shows the status when it was in the can
This is to keep it. The scan prohibition flag is also available.
Don't reset and leave. # 95 came when it was in 1-cut shot mode
However, here you can check the flag during scanning
Check if you came during the conscan. Scya
If it is not in progress, proceed to # 101 and repeat according to the current calculation
Go to the one that drives the drive, and if scanning # 96, #
Drive the lens according to the signal pattern shown in Table 6 at 97.
Turn off the power to the motor (MO1) and apply the brake.
You. In order to remember the state where the lens is stopped, drive with # 98
Clear the moving flag (F in driving in Table 5-2).
At # 99, wait 70ms for the lens to stop completely,
In # 100, clear the same flags as in # 101 and
Return to INTA and start the next focus detection. Waiting for # 99
As mentioned above, when the integration time of the sensor is long, the lens
If it is moving, the image will flow, or even the problem is
Even if the amount of movement is corrected to the integrated data position during driving,
Correct correction is difficult when negative acceleration is applied
Then, after the lens is completely stopped, the next sensor integration
Once started, out-of-focus shift of focus detection calculation can be prevented
Because. Next, the defocus amount of the focus detection calculation result is calculated by the lens
Flow to convert to pulse count value for driving "MPUL
There is an S ". In # 102, if the lens is in this range
The defocus range that is in focus is the focus zone
Set in register FZW. Note that autofocus here
Focus zone display in the adjusted state (AF mode) and focus adjustment display
It is distinguished from the focus zone amount in the state (FA mode),
Set a wider value in FA mode than in AF mode. # 103
From # 106 is the flow when the lens is stopped at the end
So this is the case when the lens is hitting the infinity end
is there. The end flag of # 103 (end F in Table 5-2) is here.
Created in the end check subroutine until
ing. If the lens is at the end, proceed to # 104.
Look at the previous direction flag (previous direction F in Table 5-3)
Check if the lens was about to move in this direction
You. The lens is at the end of infinity, and it drives further to the infinity side
If so, go to # 105 and set the end position flag.
(End position F in Table 5-2) is checked and there is no end position.
Look at the far end side or the closest end side, and if it is the infinity end side, # 106
Go to and set the focus zone to a large value of 255 μm.
ing. If the lens stop position is the closest end, go to # 107
Go through This is due to variation in focus detection data
Even at the far end position, the focus position is further toward the infinity end
It is possible that there will be
If you set the focal zone, it will be even more infinity
There is also the possibility of trying to move the lens far away. Moreover,
However, the position considered to be the end at infinity is actually due to other external stress.
It is possible that the lens was stopped halfway. Real truth
In the example, this is indistinguishable. So the lens is at the end of infinity, and beyond the end of infinity
When the detection result shows that there is an in-focus position
First expands the focusing zone to 255 μm,
If there is a lens inside the lens, the focus is displayed and
Is not within the focus zone, the focus cannot be detected.
Display (LED blinking). The lens is
While trying to move to infinity, force the
If the lens is stopped, the lens stop position will
If it is not in the focal zone, the LED blinks.
And The flow of this display is from # 120 to # 123. On the other hand, there is a lens at the closest end,
If it is detected to be on the distant side, or if the
Are trying to move to the close side, but forcibly
If the lens is stopped, its position is within the focusing zone.
If it is not in, we will display the closest direction
doing. The flow of this display is from # 147 to # 1 in FIG.
Hit 52. If the lens doesn't stop at infinity,
The focus zone moves to # 107 with the value set in # 102.
You. With # 107, the auxiliary light AF mode is based on the auxiliary light mode flag.
Mode is set, the auxiliary light AF mode is
If yes, chromatic aberration is corrected. Auxiliary light AF mode illumination
Since bright light uses light with a wavelength close to infrared light, flash light
When shooting, the best focus position may be off due to the difference in the light source.
Occurs. Therefore, if it is in auxiliary light AF mode, this
The amount of focus shift must be corrected. This shooting
As shown in Table 4, the correction data ΔIR according to the
It is sent by serial communication from the control microcomputer (MC2).
It is. This is the differential that we have been looking for with # 108.
Correct for the outfall amount DF. And in # 109, Def
Change the focus amount to the pulse count value for driving the lens.
Replace. The coefficient for this conversion is also fixed by each lens.
Since it is available, the data sent by serial communication is the same as ΔIR.
Data KROM. The defocus amount DF that has been calculated
The pulse coefficient for driving the lens is multiplied by the conversion coefficient KROM.
To obtain the DRCNT value. Similarly, focus zone FZW
Multiply the data KROM to convert to pulse count value FZC
Good. Regarding conversion into these pulse count values, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No.
-140408 publication, it is described in detail here.
Omitted. Then, in # 110, the driving flag (during driving in Table 5-2).
Based on F), it is possible to determine whether the automatic focus adjustment operation is currently in progress.
If you turn off the lens and the lens is driving,
Branch to N ”. When the lens was stopped, that is,
The first time you go through the flow or after the automatic focus adjustment has finished.
When confirming the focus position or in FA mode, proceed to # 111. This
This is the memory FERM for the defocus amount DF when the lens is stopped.
Save to. This will be automatically adjusted by this value later.
Do not go or go to the focus position confirmation loop after point adjustment is completed
Used to decide In the next # 112, the AF mode
The AF mode is determined based on the
If yes, branch to “FAP” from # 113. This is non
AF mode means that it is FA mode.
You. In # 113, it is possible to determine whether the lens is in the focusing zone.
I'm declining. Here, pulse count for lens drive
Compare the value DRCNT with the focus zone pulse count value FZC
However, the defocus amount DF and the focus zone amount FZW are compared.
May be. As a result, if the lens is
For example, the focus is displayed at # 115. This is the terminal (P31) LM
Set the signal to "Low" and leave the LL and LR signals at "High".
By turning on only the central LED (LEDM)
Done. If it is outside the focusing zone, proceed to # 114 and here
Indicates the direction in which the lens should be driven. For example, repeat the lens
If it is the direction to extend, set the LL signal of the terminal (P32) to "Low".
Then, turn on the left LED (LEDL) and retract the lens.
If it is in the direction, set the LR signal of the terminal (P30) to "Low" and to the right
Turn on the LED (LEDR). And for the next focus detection
Then, loop to # 40 “CDINTA” in FIG. If # 112 was in AF mode, that is, AF.F =
If it is 0, check the focus in AF mode with # 116.
You. The lens drive pulse count value DRCNT is set to the in-focus zone
If it is smaller than the loose count value FZC, it means that it is in focus,
Branch to "INFZ" from # 117. In # 117, FA mode
The focus is displayed in the same way as # 115 at the time, and at # 118 the terminal (P12)
Set the AFE signal from to "High". Control microcomputer (MC2)
Is seeing this signal, and when it goes "High" it will auto focus
See that the section is complete. And in AF priority mode,
The release operation is possible only when the AFE signal becomes "High".
It will be. In # 119, here is the AF stop I
Waiting for NT1 interrupt or INT2 release interrupt
Become. This is when the switch (S1) in Fig. 2 is closed once.
One-shot mode that automatically adjusts the focus only once
This is the method when the subject is focused and once the subject is in focus.
For example, if the focus position changes after that, the focus display will continue.
Still, the lens will not be driven again. or,
Alternatively, don't wait for an interrupt at # 119,
Return this to # 39 "CDINTA" or # 40 "CDINT"
For example, the focus is repeatedly detected and the subject is always tracked automatically.
Set to continuous mode to adjust points
Can also. If # 116 determines that you are outside the focus zone, # 1
Continue to 20. As described above, here, the termination flag (No. 5-2
Check the end F) of the table and it is the end (# 120), before
Check the rotation direction flag and check the focus position of the focus detection result.
It is on the infinity end side (# 121), and the lens stop position is infinity.
If it is the edge (# 122), proceed to # 123 to drive the lens
Do not let both LEDs (LEDL) (LEDR) on both sides together
Blinks to indicate that focus detection is not possible, then interrupt at # 119
Waiting, I will not go to the next focus detection anymore. these
If the condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to # 124. Inversion from # 124 to # 130
Perform a check. That is, the result of the previous focus detection calculation
Defocus direction and the result of the calculation in this loop
Compared with the direction, the defocus direction is reversed
If you know, correct the backlash of the lens drive system.
It is something like. To drive the lens
The drive force transmission shaft between the camera body and the lens.
A considerable amount of backlash is provided in the ra part. Therefore, the
The lens drive direction is reversed due to the distance to the image body changing
If you do, the lens for the amount of rotation from the motor (MO1)
Does not move to the in-focus position obtained from the calculation result. There
Then, if the direction is reversed, the backlash amount must be corrected.
It has to be. This backlash amount is
Control microcomputer, as shown in Table 4.
It is obtained by serial communication from (MC2). Place
The last defocus direction that appears here is the switch
Yes when it is the first loop after closing (S1)
Well, again, this is the last lens in the last sequence.
I remember it as the driving direction. That is, switch (S
1) The microcomputer (MC1) (MC2) storage before the closing
I try to remember it while I'm in Pmode. Also this
The backlash correction of is immediately corrected if the calculation result is reversed.
Rather than correct, this correction is not
It's only when it's stopped. While driving the lens
When the result is that the direction is reversed, just the lens
Just stop the lens and do not immediately reverse the lens.
Also, the previous direction flag is not reset. So
Direction calculated by the next focus detection calculation after stopping
Direction), but one more time before the lens was stopped
Was driving the lens in the direction desired by
If it is reversed from the direction (previous direction), backtrack for the first time.
It means to correct the shoe. This is the focus position
By considering the dispersion of calculation in the vicinity,
Lens hunting combined with rush amount error
I try not to wake me up. The flow for these is # 124
To # 130, and the flow during lens driving is # 1 in FIG.
Has been achieved in combination with 34- # 140. # 124
Check the current direction flag (current direction F in Table 5-3)
After looking at the defocus direction this time, # 125, # 126
Check the previous defocus direction. And last time
If the defocus direction is different from this time, # 127,
Go to # 128 and rewrite the previous direction flag.
If they are in the same direction, skip to "TINNZ" in # 141. #
In 129, the backlash compensation sent by serial communication
Positive use data BKLSH to the lens drive pulse count value DRCNT
Compensate for it, and in # 130 it reverses and backlash
The reversal flag (reversal F in Table 5-2) that the correction was made is set.
And proceed to # 141. Next, based on Fig. 12, the lens drive branched from # 110.
Moved to the explanation of the flow "IDOBUN" from # 131 when running
You. In this first # 131, the lens hits the end
Check whether or not, and in # 132 for moving amount correction
Read the event counter value EVTCNT for the third time and register
Store in memory at T3. This will give you all the
You have incorporated the data. Ie sensor integration
T1 at the start, T2 at the end of integration, and focus detection calculation end
At the end of T3, using these three values, the product is
Focus detection calculation result by pixel data obtained by dividing,
By the time the calculation is actually completed and the lens drive amount is set
The amount of lens movement will be corrected. During integration
The moving amount Tx of the lens
= T1-T2. Where the event counter is a subtraction cow
Since T1> T2, Tx is positive. Impatience
The lens movement amount Ty in the time required for point detection calculation is
It is calculated as Ty = T2-T3. Here the lens moves at a constant speed
Assuming that the
If you represent the location as the point where the subject data was obtained,
Between the time when the calculation result is obtained, the amount of Tz = Tx / 2 + Ty
It has moved. Therefore, the calculation result of this time
If you subtract Tz from the accumulated count value DRCNT,
It means that the movement amount has been corrected. Therefore, in # 133, DRCNT-Tz is newly installed as DRCNT.
Change and set as the next lens drive pulse count value
It becomes the value to do. As mentioned above, # 134 to # 140 are differential while driving the lens.
The flow when the focus direction is reversed, this time with # 134
Check the direction flag to see the current defocus direction
Check the direction flag last time in # 135 and # 136
Check the defocus direction of the
If so, proceed to # 137. If not reversed, proceed to # 141. #
For 137 and # 138, turn off the power to the lens drive motor (MO1).
Brake and stop, and # 139 indicates that the lens is being driven.
Clear the driving flag, and the lens stops at # 140.
Wait for 70ms until it goes to # 39 "CDINTA". "TINNZ" starting from # 141 is driving and stopping the lens
With the flow that comes from both of them, the lens drive pulse
Set the count value DRCNT and move the lens.
is there. The driving speed of the lens is a two-stage type in this embodiment.
When the lens is far away from the in-focus position
High speed and low speed near the lens focus position
It is decided to switch between and. And Roasty
The part that controls the lens with the camera is called the near zone.
I will In # 141, the lens drive pulse count value DRC
NT is less than the pulse count value NZC of this near zone area.
Check if it is inside, and the lens is near zone
If it is in the area of, go to # 143, near zone
Set the rug (near zone F in Table 5-2). # 144 in
Set MC signal from the terminal (PO3) to “Low”, as shown in Table 6.
The lens drive motor (MO1) is driven at low speed.
To make it work. On the other hand, when outside the near zone, #
Go to 142 and set the MC signal to "High" to set the lens drive motor.
Drive (MO1) at high speed. From # 145 to # 152, there was a part of the explanation above.
This is a flow for handling when the lens is stopped at the end position.
Low. By the way, the lens stops at the end
It is detected from "CKLOCK" in Fig. 14 (to be described later)
Switch to the lens end position, as described in the subroutine.
There is not a switch, but an interrupt port INT3
From the motor drive amount monitor encoder (ENC)
When the pulse of is not input for a certain period, the lens stops
It is based on the judgment that Drive the motor (MO1)
That the lens is stopped although it is present
It is judged that it is hitting with
In the "K" subroutine, stop the motor drive and
Make a rug. With this method, the lens actually
Even if you are not at the end, you can be forcibly stopped on the way,
Is something that gets stuck in the lens or some other factor
Then, the lens stopped for a moment (on the order of several hundred ms)
However, it will be judged as the end. To prevent this, stop the lens once at the end.
Even if it looks like it's stuck, try moving the lens again and try again
Only when it is judged as the end by the "CKLOCK" subroutine,
It is said that it actually stops at the end. Hula watching this
Is the end 2nd flag (end 2F in Table 5-2), and in # 145,
The end flag set in the "CLOCK" subroutine
Look, when it is "1", set this end 2nd flag in # 146.
to see. And in the initial state, this flag is "0"
Then go to # 150, set the 2nd end flag, # 153
Move the lens with the lens drive flow from. And
When I came to # 146 in the next loop, I stopped at the end for the first time.
It judges that it is on, and proceeds to # 147. In # 147, check the defocus direction this time,
Then, see the end position flag at # 148 and # 149
Check if is hitting the end on the side. You
That is, the current defocused state is the front pin (this time direction flag
1) and the lens position is at the infinity end.
Then, the lens moves further to the infinity side than the current infinity end.
Will have to be done. In this case, # 148
From # 40 to the next "CDINT" loop,
As explained in, expand the focus zone and focus
Check again. This time the defocus state is the rear pin (this time direction flag =
0), and in # 149, the lens position is the closest side (end position).
If flag = 1), the lens moves further to the near side.
It will have to be moved. In this case # 14
Proceed from 9 to # 152, and set the LL signal from the terminal (P32) to "Low".
And the direction table to instruct to move the lens to the closest side
Turn on the indicator. Then leave the lens stopped,
Go to the next loop from # 40 and repeat focus detection. And
The position of the subject changes and the defocus direction is reversed.
For example, in the loop, proceed from # 147 to # 148, exit to # 151, and terminate.
Clear the flag and go to the lens drive loop from # 153
Come in. In this example, the # 147 Defocal
The direction flag was used this time to check the direction but the previous direction
A flag may be used, in which case it will cover more than the closest end.
From the state where the object is on the near side, to the focusable area of the lens
Even if it enters, the lens does not follow and remains stopped. Wa
In the case of one-shot AF mode, use the latter method.
Well, if it's called Continuous AF mode,
It can be said that it is inconvenient if it is not a person. In this latter case, once the low contrast state
If this happens, terminate in the # 165 “LOWCON” flow in Figure 13.
The flag will be cleared, so you can run out of the closest end and
And the lens drive state is entered and automatic focus adjustment is possible.
And Next, if the lens is not at the end or at the end
Is moving in the opposite direction, # 153 in Fig. 12
Enter the lens drive flow from. Focus adjustment on # 153
Turn off all status display LEDs. This is driving the lens
The basic principle is to not display in the defocus direction.
It depends. When focusing with the lens stopped
The center LED (LEDM) is lit to indicate the focus, and the closest end
Or at the end of infinity it is a deviation to LED (LEDL) (LEDR)
Lights to indicate the defocus direction, and low contrast
At the time of operation, the LED (LEDL) (LEDR) blinks.
is there. Set the lens drive pulse count value DRCNT with # 154.
To the counter EVTCNT and the end check register MECNT
set. Value set in event counter EVTCNT
Is DRCNT the encoder (ENC) to the interrupt pin (INT3)?
And the AF microcomputer interrupts (MC1)
In this interrupt flow (INT3S in Figure 16),
Is subtracted. When the count value DRCNT becomes “0”, the
When you stop the lens, it is in focus
is there. In # 155, the lens drive motor (MO1) is turned on.
And start driving the lens. This follows the previous direction flag.
Then move the lens. Ie this flag has
Is left as the lens driving direction. Why
, The previous direction flag, when the lens is stopped,
According to the flow from # 124 in FIG.
This is because the contents are the same. And the previous direction
If the lug is "0" (rear pin), the MF from the terminal (PO1)
Set the signal to "Low" and extend the lens as shown in Table 6.
If the previous direction flag is “1” (front pin), the terminal
Set the MR signal from (P00) to "Low" and retract the lens.
Move in the direction. # 156 check the driving flag
Check if the lens was being driven until now
However, if it is in operation (this will be explained later,
This means that the automatic focus adjustment is being performed outside the near zone.
And), loop to # 40 [CDINT] and enter the next focus detection.
You. If the lens has been stopped so far, drive with # 155
Since it started, set the driving flag in # 157.
You. In # 158, look at the auxiliary light mode flag and see the auxiliary light AF mode.
If it is auxiliary light AF mode, check if
Branch to "L2 SAVE" from # 231. Auxiliary light AF mode
Otherwise, check the near zone flag at # 159 and drive the lens.
Check if the movement is in the near zone,
If it is within the zone, proceed to [WSTOP] from # 160. # 160, #
The 161 just repeats the end check every 100ms.
Then, it does not return to the next focus detection loop. And the lens
Wait until it completely stops at the in-focus position, then stop
For the first time, the focus detection for focusing confirmation starts. This is "WSTO
While turning the "P" loop, "INT3" of # 252 in Fig. 16
There is an S interrupt and it controls the lens.
It is. Focus detection while driving the lens in this near zone
The reason for not doing this is as follows. First, in the near zone
Lens drive has acceleration, not constant speed
You. That is, a positive acceleration is applied at the start of lens driving.
There is a negative acceleration before the lens stop position. High speed
Entering the near zone from the time of driving the car, at low speed
When switching, it has negative acceleration. Where the original
From now on, the near-zone count amount NZC will change from high speed to
Turn off the power to the lens (MO1) and stop moving the lens.
It is decided based on the count value of, and the motor (MO1)
It is not an area for moving at a constant speed. It ’s not constant speed here
Even if the sensor is integrated while the motor is driving,
The point at which the subject data was obtained is at a position in the middle of time.
That is why I cannot represent them. Therefore,
Even if you correct the movement as described above, the correction is not accurate.
Instead, there will be an error in calculating the lens drive pulse.
Therefore, when the lens is not moving at a constant speed, the sensor
It is desirable not to integrate. Therefore, in this embodiment,
The focus is not detected during speed and deceleration. Next, when it is judged that it is outside the near zone in # 159,
Branch to # 162 and wait 100ms here. lens
It accelerates from the stopped state, so it takes 100ms until the speed becomes constant.
I'm waiting for time. And at # 163
To check. The end check cycle is too short
And it's not too long. Enco according to the movement of the lens
If it is shorter than the pulse interval of the
If it is too long, the motor, gear, and
The durability of the drive system such as
Which problem is there?
Even Then in # 164, look at the 1-cut shot flag and set it to 1
-Check if you are in cut shot mode, 1
-If in cut shot mode, while driving the lens
Since this is a mode in which focus detection is not performed, # 160 “WST
Go to "OP", wait for the lens to stop, then stop
Then, focus detection for confirming focus is performed. 1-cut shot mode
If not, it is looping to "CDINTA" of # 39 in FIG.
Good. The above is the main routine of automatic focus adjustment. Next, the branch routine and subroutine from FIG.
To explain. First of all, "LOW
The “CON” flow starts from # 88 of the main routine in FIG.
Branch when the result of point detection calculation is low contrast
The flow is coming. First check the end with # 165
Check the AF mode flag in # 166 to see if it is in AF mode.
Check. If not AF mode, proceed to # 167
-Set the con flag and use # 168 for low contrast
The LL signal and LR signal of terminals (P32) and (P30) are displayed as
Simultaneously repeats "Low" and "High" LED (LEDL) (LED
R) blinks. Then, immediately to the next focus detection
Push. In AF mode, proceed from # 166 to # 169,
Check if the motor is driving by checking the driving flag
I do. If driving, if low contrast scan
Results in low contrast during autofocus.
There are cases where it comes, so # 170 is the scanning flag
Check to distinguish this, and
For example, until you stop the lens,
Ignore the result of the strike, so proceed to # 40 "CDINT" immediately.
Then the next focus detection starts. # 170 during low contrast scan
If you came to # 171 from the low contrast state
When it comes out and the refocus integration at the time of starting the automatic focus adjustment
Event counter at the end of calculation to compensate for movement
The value T3 is set to the maximum count value of 65,000. (Detail
(Details will be described later) Similarly, event count value for motor drive
EVTCNT, end detection count value MECNT also has maximum count value 6
Set it to 5,000. Then go to # 40 "CDINT"
Step. When the lens is stopped or when the contrast is low
Proceeds from # 169 to # 172. And the low contrast scan
If the scan prohibit flag indicating prohibition is set, go to # 173
move on. Note that the scan prohibit flag is not
The can has already finished once or the contrast
Has either come out. For # 173 to # 175 and # 181 to # 183,
Also determines whether to enter auxiliary light AF mode.
It is. The conditions to enter this auxiliary light AF mode are
First, in AF mode, the subject is low contrast
It is a strike, the lens is stopped and
Light, that is, the auxiliary light illuminator shown in FIG.
The attached electronic flash device is attached to the camera,
There is an AFFL signal indicating that the flash is ready and
It means that the charge completion signal RDY is coming.
The auxiliary light AF mode is entered only after all the conditions are met. First # 17
3 for low light flag, # 174 for fill light OK signal AFFL, # 17
Check the charge completion signal RDY at 5 and set all the conditions to "1".
For example, fly to "LLLED" from # 225 and enter auxiliary light AF mode.
You. If these conditions are not met, # 176
Check the low light status based on the
If it is a light, double the maximum integration time of the sensor with 200 ms with # 177
I do. AGC is 8 times with integration time of 100ms, low contrast,
When it comes to low light, if you increase the integration time by one step,
-There is a possibility that focus detection will be possible instead of contrast.
This is because However, this is also the case when the integration time is long.
Error is generated when focus detection is performed while driving the lens.
For some reason, setting the maximum integration time to 200ms mode is
It is limited to the suspension of operations. In # 178, set the low control flag last time, and in # 179, set the lowcon flag.
Blinking table of LED (LEDL) (LEDR) showing the contrast state
The near zone flag and renormalization integration flag are indicated by # 180.
(Renormalization integral F in Table 5-1), inversion flag, terminal flag
Clear the lag and end 2nd flag and go to # 40 "CDINT"
Loop. If # 172 is not the low-conscan disable state, # 181
It branches to "SEARCH" from. # 181 to # 195
Low is a flow for starting the low contrast scan.
First, # 181 to # 183 is the flow from # 173 to # 175
Similarly to, the conditions for entering the fill AF mode are determined.
And if the conditions are met, jump from # 183 to # 225 “LLLED”.
The auxiliary light AF mode. Low light but auxiliary light
The AFFL signal is "1" because the lighting device is not set.
If not, proceed from # 181 to # 182, # 184,
Now the maximum integration time of the sensor is already in 200ms mode.
Check if it is. If you're not in 200ms mode, # 230
Jump to "LL200" and set the 200ms mode flag #
Loop to 39 "CDINTA". # 184 is already
Despite being in the large 200ms mode,
Trust, low contrast with # 181
If is not low light, proceed to # 185, 200ms
Clear the mode flag. This is because the integration time is long during low contrast scan.
As described above, the image of the subject flows and the low contrast
It is likely to be the last, even if the contrast
Even if there is a maximum value of integration time and focus detection calculation time
In the meantime, when the lens is stopped and the focus is detected again
Drive ratio that is too far beyond the focusing range
There may be a large lens, so prevent this
In order to clear the 200ms mode flag,
The interval is 100ms. Next, in the flow from # 186 to # 190,
Decide how to start scanning the lens when scanning
ing. When the subject is bright, the low contrast scan
Start scanning from the direction determined by the focus detection calculation
You. Defocus amount is calculated as low contrast.
Even if you do not get it, it is said that you have found it in the defocus direction
Scan in accordance with the direction of the calculation result.
Because Defocus amount during this low contrast scan
If you come to the area where
Go into action. In low contrast scan, the lens is one end
If it hits, the drive is reversed, and if it hits the opposite end, the
Is over. Integrate with # 186 to determine whether the subject is dark or bright
Uses 1-cut shot flag to indicate if time exceeds 50ms
I am checking. This may use AGC data
Even if it is darker than 2 times, it is darker than 4 or 8 times
You may. On the other hand, when it is dark, proceed to # 187 and
Start scanning from the feeding direction. This way, low
The final stop position at the end of Conscan is the lens at the infinity end
Ends with the state of This is a cap on the lens
When you do, the lens will end in a retracted state and the lens
Is compact and convenient for storage in the camera case
You. At this time, repeat the lens instead of searching for contrast.
If you attach importance to the function that ends in, proceed to # 187.
Instead, you may proceed to "LLIGHT 2" of # 189. sand
Wow, I hit the end once with a low contrast scan at # 189.
Flag per scan (F per scan)
With # 190, set the MR signal to "Low" to make a low control in the renormalization direction.
Start scanning. When the lens hits the end at infinity, # 18
Whether it is # 199 in Fig. 14 or not depending on the flag per scan created in 9
In the “ROTEM” of these, it was determined that the scan was finished with this.
It is cut off and the lens stops. In addition, this "LLIGHT2"
This is where you will fly from the auxiliary light AF mode flow. In # 191, set the low-con flag to “1” last time, and in # 192
Set the scanning flag. Lens stopped in # 193
Set the maximum defocus amount FERM to 65,000.
Good. Similar to # 171 in # 194, maximum value of 6 for T3, EVTCNT, MECNT
Set 5,000. Displayed when driving the lens with # 195
To turn off. And the next focus detection while scanning
Return to loop # 40. Next is the end check subroutine "CKLOCK" in Fig. 14.
Let's move on to the explanation. In # 196, the lens is
Check if it is driving, and if it is not driving,
Return without checking. Driving lens
Goes to # 197 and checks the end. When driving
Set the same value as the drive pulse count value DRCNT.
The end check register MECNT and the lens drive
Event counter count set as the count value DRCNT
Unt value Compare with EVTCNT. If the lens is moving, EV
The value of TCNT contains the pulse from the encoder (ENC).
It is decremented by 1 each time, resulting in a value different from MECNT.
Has become. The lens must hit the end and not move
For example, the pulse doesn't come from the encoder (ENC).
The value of EVTCNT does not change and remains the same value as MECNT.
You. Therefore, if MECNT = EVTCNT in # 197, the lens stops.
It is judged that there is a termination process "ROTEM"
Branch to # 199. If MECNT ≠ EVTCNT, the lens moves
It judges that it is present and proceeds to # 198. In # 198 MECNT
Reset the value of EVTCNT to the next termination check.
Prepare for Then return. First in the termination processing flow "ROTEM" from # 199
Since it is branched from the subroutine, the microcomputer
Reset the tack pointer. # 1, INT1, INT2
Disable interrupts other than. I'm hitting the end
Power off the motor (MO1) with # 201 and # 202.
And apply the brakes. In # 203, stop the motor (MO1)
Therefore, the driving flag is cleared. # 204
Check the lag, if the previous direction flag is "0"
(It was a rear pin and the lens was extended), # 205 was the most
The end position flag indicates that it stops at the near end position.
Set "1" in the box. If the previous direction flag is "1"
(It was the front pin and the lens was pulled in), # 206
It means that it stops at the infinity end position,
Clear the lag. # 207 is in low contrast scan
Check if the end has hit the
If not, go to # 208 and the lens is stopped at the end.
The end flag that indicates that it is set. # 209
In auxiliary light AF mode based on the auxiliary light mode flag
Check if there is any, and if the auxiliary light AF mode is
If you hit the end, even if it hits the end
Even if it is focus detection, do not loop to the next focus detection
LED blinking display and give up focus detection. Auxiliary light A
For F mode, in the "LLLED" flow from # 225
Will be described in detail in. If it is not in auxiliary light AF mode with # 209,
Next focus detection loop "CDIN
Go to "TA". At # 207, the lens came to the end during the low contrast scan.
If yes, go to # 210 and end while scanning
Whether you have been hit, that is, whether you are going or not
Check, and if it is going, reverse the scan direction
Since it is necessary to move it, proceed to # 217. # 217, now
Since it has reached the end once, the flag per scan is set.
Cut. Next, at # 218, the previous direction flag (lens drive
Check the direction), and check with # 219 and # 221 respectively.
Set it in the opposite direction. And # 220, # 2
The lens drive signal according to the direction to move next with 22
Set MR or MF to “Low”. At this time, of course, the brake signal
Keep MB high. This will start the inversion drive
You. In # 223, FERM,
Do not set T3, EVTCNT, MECNT to the maximum value of 65,000 respectively.
I'll tell you. In # 224, set the driving flag to "1"
Then, go to the next focus detection loop "CDINTA". On the other hand, it has already hit the end once, and the second end
If so, proceed from # 210 to # 211. This time, Loco
The lens does not move because the scan has ended. # 211
Per-scan flag that hits the end of the scan in
Clear, and in # 212 clear the scanning flag,
With # 213, once you scan it, it will not be done anymore,
Set the scan prohibition flag. # 214 is low
I did a Conscan, but I found the contrast
No, the focus could not be detected, so the LED flashing display
do. With # 215, check whether the auxiliary light AF mode is active.
If it is in the fill AF mode, go to # 216 and then
It does not go to the focus detection of the
I will cross. Scan ends if auxiliary light AF mode is not used
After that, because focus detection is repeated at the end position, # 39 “CDIN
Return to TA. The above is the end detection routine. Next, the auxiliary light AF mode routine will be described. Auxiliary light
Enter the AF mode from the "LOW CON" routine in Fig. 13.
You. If the above conditions are met, start from # 175 or # 183
Proceed to # 225's "LLLED", flow of auxiliary light AF mode
Become. In # 225 of Fig. 14, the supplementary AF mode is shown first.
Set the assisted AF mode flag. From terminal (P13) with # 226
Set the signal from the terminal (ST4) to “High”. Flash circuit
(FLS) emits the auxiliary light LED (48) by this signal.
To start. In # 227, you entered the auxiliary light AF mode.
The LL and LR signals to “Lo”
w "and turn on the LEDs (LEDL) (LEDR) on both sides.
There is a maximum of 45 hours of lighting time until the next focus detection calculation is completed.
It is standard to turn on for 0 ms. This is the # 229 200ms
Waiting time, calculation time for focus detection, maximum integration time
It is the total time when the interval is 200 ms, but the subject is quite
If it is bright near, focus detection will be completed in less than 450ms. You
That is, this is also because the display is turned off while the lens is being driven.
You. This display is only once when you enter auxiliary light AF mode
is there. On the other hand, the auxiliary light LED (48) emits light twice.
The auxiliary light AF mode sequence starts with the auxiliary light LED (4
8) emits light once and the CCD image sensor (F
Preliminary lighting for LM). This is a CCD image
This is to improve the responsiveness of the sensor (FLM). And
Mode with maximum integration time of 200 ms, C under fill illumination
Integrate CD. Then, this data is used to detect the focus.
Calculate and drive the lens. During this time, focus detection
No. And after stopping the lens, the second LED for auxiliary light (48)
Light up to 450ms and then focus detection
If the result is not in the focusing zone, try the lens again.
Drive to adjust focus. This is the basic movement
You. Here, the auxiliary light LED (48) emits light for the first or second time.
The distinction becomes necessary. To distinguish this,
The auxiliary 1st flag (auxiliary 1stF in Table 5-2) is provided.
You. If this flag contains "0", it means the first light emission.
"1" indicates the second light emission. #twenty two
In 8, put "0" in this flag. # 229 sensor
Wait for 200ms as the preliminary lighting time of
Set the mode with integration time of 200ms. Auxiliary light AF
In mode, the integration time is usually 200ms. Soshi
Loop to “CDINTA” as in normal AF mode.
You. The flow proceeds from # 39 in FIG. 9 in the auxiliary light emitting state,
10 Turn off the auxiliary light at # 69 in the figure. Similarly, focus detection is performed
Please come to # 87 in Fig. 11 and go to the auxiliary light AF mode in Fig. 14 # 238.
Branch to row "LSAVE". This starts from # 238
It is. First, is it the first time focus detection in auxiliary light AF mode?
If it is the first time, proceed to # 239. Where,
Whether the point detection calculation result has low contrast
If the contrast is low, check # 189 “L
Go to "LIGHT2" and give up the second focus detection. this
Then, loop from # 189, # 190 in Fig. 13 to # 40 in Fig. 9.
And then, let's put in the lens and finish. Give up
The auxiliary light is not emitted,
So you don't have to go around the focus detection loop,
If it is fluffy, it will suddenly become bright and contrast will come out
Because it is possible to detect focus without auxiliary light.
is there. If # 239 is not low contrast,
Go to # 91 [NLDC1] and enter the focus adjustment drive flow
go. In this case, go through # 91 to # 102 in FIG.
Further, the drive starts at # 155 through # 141 in FIG.
From 8 to auxiliary light AF mode flow "L2SAVE" (Fig. 14
# 231). In # 231 of Fig. 14, fill light is based on fill light 1st flag.
Check whether the light emission is the first time,
Then go to # 232. Here, the lens is used as the focus detection calculation result.
Wait until the lens is driven by the
After the stop, the flow proceeds to the second auxiliary light emission flow # 233. # 233
Now, look at the fill light OK signal AFFL, and if it is "1" (OK),
Output the auxiliary light emission signal for the second time with # 234 (that is,
Set the signal of the terminal (ST4) to "High"). AFFL signal is “0”
If so, the auxiliary light illuminator was turned off, so twice
Do not illuminate your eyes. In this example, this
If you have not canceled from Auxiliary light AF mode,
Is also good. # 235 sets the auxiliary light 1st flag and the second auxiliary
Show that it is in optical AF mode. And the first time
Similar to # 229, wait 200ms, go through # 230,
Go to "CDINTA". The same applies when in the second auxiliary light AF mode
9 through # 39 to # 44 and # 68 in FIG.
If it is in auxiliary light AF mode at # 87 in Fig. 11
Branches to “LSAVE” in # 238 of FIG. This time twice
Since it is the auxiliary light AF mode for the eyes, proceed to # 240. # 240 in
Check whether it was low contrast,
-If it is contrast, proceed to # 211, this time it is the first time
Unlike the case, with the lens stopped without stopping,
Interrupt by displaying the blinking LED (LEDL) (LEDR) on both sides
I will wait. If not low contrast, # 240 to # 9 in Fig. 11
Proceed to 1 to enter the lens drive flow. And in Fig. 12
Branch to "L2SAVE" in auxiliary light AF mode flow until # 158
I do. With # 231, it is the second auxiliary light AF mode, so
Proceed to # 236 and wait for the lens to stop like the first time.
One. If it is not the fill-in AF mode, the focus confirmation
I entered point detection, but limited the emission of auxiliary light to 2 times.
Then, it does not go to the focus detection for confirmation. (Light emission in this embodiment
Since it is limited to 2 times, the following process without confirmation
However, the focus is confirmed without limiting the number of flashes.
The light may be emitted until it is turned on. ) This process is the lens stop
Check the focus detection calculation value FERM when stopped. That is,
Defocus amount at the start of the second lens drive is less than 1 mm
In that case, consider focus detection performance and check the focus sufficiently
I knew I could bring the lens into the focusing zone.
Cut off and proceed to the "INFZ" flow when focusing on # 117 in Fig. 11
Then, the focus is displayed. If FERM is 1 mm or more, once
It was said that the focus detection results for the second and the second time were very different.
By doing so, # 211
Proceed to, and leave the lens in its current position.
L) (LEDR) blinks. This is the auxiliary light AF mode rule.
It is. Limit the emission of the auxiliary light LED (48) to twice
Is that power consumption and usage
There is a problem of, and if it is once, focus detection error and backlash
Since there is a problem of error, we use 2 times as appropriate.
You. If the second focus cannot be detected, the lens
The thing that is not involved is to open the switch (S1) once
Close again and try the auxiliary light AF mode again
Then, there is a possibility that it will start near the focus of the subject
There is a high possibility that the lens will be brought into the focusing zone.
It is because it is determined that it will be. Next, the event counter interrupt flow "IN
Enter the explanation about "T3S". This is an interrupt pin (INT
3) Encoder for lens drive motor (MO1)
The pulse signal PS from the DA (ENC) is used to drive the lens
It controls things. Lens to the in-focus position
The drive count value EVTCNT of the
However, the interrupt signal to INT3 drives the lens.
The amount of movement is constantly monitored, and the moving speed and stop position of the lens
Control the position. First, the driving counter when driving the lens
Value EVTCNT is set in the event counter. And
Energization of the lens drive motor (MO1) is started. Do
And the lens starts moving, and a pulse is sent from the encoder (ENC).
It goes out and INT3 is interrupted. # 252 "INT3S"
The flow of starts. First, the # 1 pulse signal came in # 252,
Decrement the count value EVTCNT of the event counter by "1". So
Then, in # 253, this count value EVTCNT is the specified amount (ie
Check if "0") is counted and EVTCNT is
If it becomes “0”, it means that the lens has reached the in-focus position.
Proceed to # 259 to stop driving the motor (MO1). The count value EVTCNT of the event counter becomes “0”.
If not, proceed to # 254, and based on the near zone flag
Check if the lens is in the near zone
I do. If the near zone flag is not "1", proceed to # 255.
See if you entered the near zone with this pulse
To check. # 255 at event counter cow
The counter value EVTCNT is the count value NZC of the near zone counter.
If it gets smaller, it means that you entered the near zone this time
And proceed to # 256. "INT3S" if outside the near zone
From the interrupt flow to the main flow
Good. On the other hand, in # 256, I entered the near zone for the first time this time.
Therefore, set the near zone flag, and use the terminal (P
Drive the motor (MO1) by setting the MC signal from 03) to "Low".
To low speed. And at # 258, interrupt
Reset the stack pointer of the flow only
Go to 160 "WSTOP" and check the end while checking the lens
Wait for to stop. That is, while looping through this "WSTOP" flow, "I
"NT3S" interrupt comes in, and the flow from # 252 to # 254, # 258
When the count value EVTCNT becomes "0" by repeating
Then, exit this loop and proceed to # 259. Near here
If it is in the zone, proceed to # 160 “WSTOP”, and
The reason why the lens does not return to the
Since it does not detect focus when it is not moving with
So, if you enter the near zone area, the lens will slow down.
Since it is not a constant speed, if you enter this area while moving the lens
No focus detection. Next, the lens is equivalent to the drive pulse count value EVTCNT
At the time of moving, the count value E is checked with # 253.
Since VTCNT becomes “0”, proceed to # 259. Where the lens drive
Turn off the motor (MO1) and brake with # 260.
Then, clear the driving flag in # 261, and clear in # 262.
Disable the vent counter interrupt and proceed to # 263.
Here, check whether it is in auxiliary light AF mode.
If this is the auxiliary light AF mode, this event counter
Return from the interrupt. This return destination is auxiliary
As explained in the flow of optical AF mode, # 232 in Fig. 14
Or # 236. If # 263 is not in fill AF mode
Resets the stack pointer in # 264 and moves to # 265.
You. The flow from here is that after the focus adjustment drive, the lens is stopped.
The focus for checking whether the stop position is within the focus zone.
It is determined whether to go to the point detection. Ma
DR signal sent from the control microcomputer (MC2)
And check whether it is single-shot mode or continuous-shot mode.
If the DR signal is "0", that is, the single shooting mode, # 267
Wait for 10ms, then the lens stops completely from low speed
Then, the next focus detection loop is entered. And the next focus check
If it is confirmed that it is in the focusing zone when exiting,
That is, the check is made in # 116 of the main flow of FIG.
If it is in focus, the process proceeds to # 117 for the first time to display the focus. Les
The stop position must be within the focusing zone.
Then, again from # 120 in Fig. 11 to the lens drive routine.
Enter and repeat the same thing. This is the focus check
Low. Next, in the continuous shooting mode, the DR signal is "1".
Therefore, proceed from # 265 in FIG. 16 to # 266. Lens here
Defocus amount when stopped (when the driving flag is "0")
Check (FERM). If this value is 500 μm or more
If so, proceed to # 267. That is, in continuous shooting mode,
If the defocus amount before driving the lens is 500 μm or more,
This means checking the focus. # 266, FERM is 500μ
If it is less than m, proceed to # 268 and the reverse flag is on.
Check if there is an inversion flag, and
Since I have corrected the crash,
I went to # 267 to confirm my focus. Flip with # 268
If there is no lag, focus display of "INFZ" of # 117
Go to flow. This is a lens drive in continuous shooting mode
Increased speed for tracking moving subjects
This is a method for improving the
When automatic focus adjustment is performed without correcting the crash
In addition, the system linearity is good, and the focus zone is surely
Without the focus detection for confirming the focus with the belief that
Then, go to the focus display directly. In other cases, check focus
To improve the focusing accuracy. The focus detection ability is the most
Which is almost perfect and has no drive system error
If so, it is not necessary to check the focus here.
May be. The above is the sequence of automatic focus adjustment. Next, the flow from # 40 to # 53 in FIG. 9 and FIG.
Using the time charts of (A) and (B)
Minutes ”and the movement correction. This is basic
To reduce the time required for the focus detection loop
It is. In Fig. 18 (A), the subject is relatively bright and the CCD
When the integration time of the image sensor (FLM) is less than 60ms
In Fig. 18 (B), the integration time is so dark that it exceeds 60 ms.
Is the case. And Fig. 18 (B) shows "renormalization integration"
It is in a state to be called. First, if the subject is bright, use the sensor shown in Fig. 18 (A).
Value of the event counter when the integration of is started EVTCNT
Read and save it as T1. At the end of integration
Save T2 with. And immediately after entering AGC data
Will start the next integration. When this integration starts
Consider that T1 '= T2, assuming that the times are almost the same.
Well, I will not take in T1 'again. Open integral with
At the same time as starting, the pixel data from the CCD image sensor
Take in. Then, the focus detection calculation is started. Toko
In the case of a bright subject of Roga (A), the second started from
The integration of the second time ends by before the focus detection calculation ends.
I have. Pixel data from CCD image sensor
Is output immediately after the integration is completed, and the data is
You cannot bring it inside the sensor. AF microcomputer
If (MC1) goes to fetch new data, it is currently calculating
The data will be destroyed. After all, in this second integration
The data will be discarded. But the calculation ends
If the next integration starts immediately at
The integration time itself isn't a problem, it's the focus detection loop
The interval does not become long. Note that in this case the cow
The input value T2 'will be ignored. And at this time
For the calculation of the movement amount correction, the above-mentioned calculation formula is satisfied. Sand
When Tx = T1-T2 and Ty = T2-T3, the correction amount Tz = Tx / 2 +
Ty is the lens drive count value calculated from the calculation result DRCNT
Just subtract it from. Note that here T3 is when the calculation is completed
Is the event count value of. Value corrected by DRCNT
As the count value EVTCNT of the new event counter.
Cut. At the start of the next integration, this count value is set to T1 ″
And save and repeat in the same way. Next, if the subject is dark, use
Save the actual value T1. Ends integration and saves T2
You. Open the next integral immediately after acquiring AGC data.
Start. Start focus detection calculation after inputting CCD data
You. Then, the calculation ends, and T3 is obtained.
Correct the movement. The second time at the end of this integration
The integration of has not finished. Where "convolutional integration" method
If not used, start a new integration at
From now on-don't wait the same amount of time
I have to. However, in the present embodiment,
Since the integration has already started by
You just have to wait-for a while. Ie total time
As a result, the time of-is shortened. Sand
The "renormalization integration" method has an integration time exceeding -time.
The effect comes out in the case of getting. In this embodiment −
Is 60 ms and the maximum integration time of-is 100 ms. By the way, for movement correction in case of (B), please refer to (A)
You cannot take the same method as. Compensation of movement at 24 at the end of calculation
Is the count value T1 'at the start of integration (this is the previous integration
Assuming that the count value at the end is the same, T2 → T1 '
), T2 'at the end of integration, T3' at the end of calculation
I want to obtain the correction value using, but at the end of the previous calculation,
The lens drive event count value EVTCNT is rewritten.
ing. That is, in the correction calculation Tx = T1'-T2 '
Therefore, T1 ′ and T2 ′ are numerical values of different dimensions, and this calculation
It has no taste. For T2 'and T3', the operation result is calculated by EVTCNT
Has been set to a new scale since was set
It is. Therefore, T1 'also needs to be converted to the new scale.
There is. That is, the drive count value DRCNT obtained in
And the difference from the value T3 that came on the previous scale is the new scale
It becomes the amount of conversion correction to the rule. If the system is ideal
For example, DRCNT = T3 should be obtained, but
Is doing sensor integration while moving,
By converting between the defocus amount and the lens drive count value
Is that the coefficient is quantized a little
The defocus amount itself obtained by the detection calculation is also the lens
In order to prevent
Backlash correction that is performed when returning after passing
It is necessary to consider that the error of
Without DRCNT> T3. Therefore, DRCNT-T3 has a new scale.
The correction amount between the old scale and the old scale becomes T2.
If this is corrected at the time of
The movement amount can be corrected. Example given in the flow chart
Then, instead of (DRCNT-T3) + T2 → T1 ', the correction amount Tz is calculated by setting Tx = T1'-T2'.
You. However, if this is another embodiment and Tx = (T2-T3) + (DRCNT-T2 '), the correction amount Tz can be similarly obtained. However
However, in this case, the correction of (DRCNT-T3) is not necessary.
In addition, another routine for renormalization integration when moving amount is corrected
It is necessary to prepare the above formula instead of Tx = T1'-T2 '. Again T
Another memory that prevents T2 from being erased by 2 '
It is also necessary to prepare. Next, if you look at "renormalization integral" on the flowchart,
It starts from # 66 in FIG. Check the driving flag with # 65.
When it is determined that the lens is driving,
Whether or not it becomes the "integral integration" state, the next integration is performed in # 66.
Start and renormalize integration flag at # 67 (Renormalization of Table 5-1
The integral F) is created. And the "convolution integral"
The top of the focus detection loop when needed is shown in # 40 of Fig. 9
It is called "CDINT". Now, add the flow when assuming that it is in the state of FIG. 18 (B).
U. Set the integration mode in # 40 and detect the integration end signal NB4.
Be prepared. Then, at # 42, the renormalization integration flag
Check if it's leaning
If it is not in the renormalization integration mode, proceed to # 44.
If the renormalization integration flag is set, go to # 43 to finish the integration.
Check the end signal NB4 and integration has already finished
Check whether or not. Product as shown in Fig. 18 (B)
If the minutes are not over, proceed to # 49 “TINTC”
From the "TINTC", the flow when it is in the retraction state, # 44
"CDINTS" from is for non-renormalization. # 49 in Figure 10
Then set the 1-cut shot flag to "1". AFE signal at # 50
Set it to “Low”, and use # 51 to correct the movement as described above.
In preparation, T1 'is corrected. # 53 maximum remaining integration time
Set the value 40ms and proceed to # 55. Below is the main lurch
In this way, "renormalization integration"
It has the effect of shortening the point detection time. AF microcomputer
This completes the explanation of the flow of (MC1). In the above-mentioned embodiment, the auxiliary light unit is installed in the camera.
Installed and closed the power switch.
It was configured to emit the assisted OK signal (AFFL)
However, when the auxiliary light unit is attached to the camera, the auxiliary light OK signal is received.
The issue (AFFL) may be issued. Also auxiliary
The optical OK signal (AFFL) and the charging completion signal (RDY) are combined into one.
You may comprise so that it may be stopped and transmitted. According to the present invention, when the flash cannot be fired,
Emission of fill light is prohibited. That is, the auxiliary light is emitted
The flash is always ready to fire.
You. Then, while the emission of fill light is prohibited,
It is controlled to repeat the focus detection operation without light.
Therefore, the brightness of the subject changes during this period.
When the focus state can be detected without the back light, it will be detected.
When you can do it, you can shoot without a flash.
You. Therefore, once you have determined that auxiliary light is needed,
Also, since the shooting is performed according to changes in the situation, the shutter
Less chances to miss.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an entire camera system of an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing its electric circuit, and FIG. 3 is a circuit showing a flash circuit of its electronic flash device. Figure, fourth,
Figure 5 is a flow chart showing the operation of the control microcomputer.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the interface circuit,
FIG. 7-16 is a flow chart showing the operation of the AF microcomputer, FIGS. 17 (A) and (B) are time charts showing the interrupt signal, and FIGS. FIG. 19 is a time chart for explaining, and FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram for explaining the focus detection principle of the embodiment of the present invention. (FLM); light receiving means, (113) (MC1); focus detection means,
(40); first illuminating means, (48); second illuminating means,
(32); first discriminating means, (MC2); second discriminating means,
Control means.

Continuation of front page        Panel     Chief Referee Yoshihiro Sakurai     Judge Judge Sato Sato     Referee Hiromichi Hirase                (56) References Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. Sho 54-126023 (JP, A)                 JP-A-59-152411 (JP, A)                 JP-A-55-15154 (JP, A)                 JP-A-56-142521 (JP, A)

Claims (1)

(57) [Claims] Focus detecting means for receiving the subject light and detecting the focus state of the subject based on the light receiving state; focusing means for performing a focusing operation based on the detection result of the focus detecting means; Auxiliary light means for illuminating an object for detection, auxiliary light judging means for judging whether or not the auxiliary light means is necessary based on the light receiving state, and auxiliary light judging means for judging that the auxiliary light means is necessary. And a prohibition means for prohibiting the operation of the auxiliary light means until the flash emission becomes possible when the flash emission is impossible by the determination means. When the focus detecting means is repeatedly operated during the operation of the prohibiting means, and the focus can be detected during the repeated operation, the focusing means can be operated without using the auxiliary light means. Automatic focus detection apparatus characterized by a control means for work. 2. The auxiliary light unit operates when the subject is darker than a predetermined brightness.
The automatic focus detection device according to the item. 3. The automatic focus detection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the determination means makes a determination based on a charge completion signal input from a flash. 4. The automatic focus detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the determination means is means for detecting whether or not a flash is mounted.