JP6017201B2 - Photography equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to imaging equipment capable of obtaining a unique image by performing the operation of changing the lens set by a simple operation.

  Conventionally, an optical image formed by a photographing optical system is sequentially converted into an image signal by a photoelectric conversion element or the like, and the obtained image signal can be recorded on a recording medium as image data in a predetermined form. Image capturing devices such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) that reproduces and displays image data recorded on a medium as an image, such as a digital camera or a video camera, are generally put into practical use and are widely used. Yes.

  This type of photographing apparatus has a feature that various image output results can be easily obtained by performing various signal processing on the acquired image data. For example, image effects equivalent to the effects obtained when shooting with various optical filters, image effects obtained when shooting with a special form of shooting lens (for example, a fish-eye lens, shooting lens with tilt mechanism, etc.), exposure adjustment, Various imaging methods that have been used in the past, such as image effects obtained by adjusting various shooting settings such as white balance adjustment, color balance adjustment, etc., using optical accessories, etc., or setting changes during shooting An image to which an image effect similar to the image effect obtained by such a device is added can be easily obtained by performing image signal processing on image data obtained at the same time as photographing or by normal photographing.

  Thus, in recent years, there has been a trend of presenting images having unrealistic or artistic flavors obtained by adding various image processing effects as described above to everyday shooting objects as works. It is like that.

  On the other hand, in a photographing apparatus, a so-called interchangeable lens photographing apparatus (camera) in which a lens barrel constituting a photographing optical system is detachable is generally popular. In this interchangeable lens photographing device, various types of lens barrels can be selectively attached to one body. In this type of photographic equipment, when the body and the lens barrel are connected, they perform electrical communication with each other to perform various operations such as autofocus (AF) and zooming appropriately. To be configured. That is, the control unit on the body side is configured to acquire information on the lens barrel attached to the body and to perform control under conditions optimal for the lens barrel.

  The lens barrel information acquired on the body side in this way can be confirmed by the user by, for example, displaying the information on the display unit on the body side. Such a technique has been conventionally disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-181725.

  The photographing apparatus disclosed in the above Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-181725 and the like has a configuration for displaying an image showing the lens configuration of the mounted lens barrel on the body side display unit.

JP 2010-181725 A

  However, the means disclosed by the back of the above Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-181725 simply displays the acquired lens barrel information on the display unit on the body side.

  In the conventional photographing apparatus, as described above, as a means for obtaining various image effects, a signal processing program is prepared in advance, and can be applied in combination. There is a problem that these alone cannot sufficiently satisfy the user's intention to express.

  On the other hand, a photographing optical system in a photographing apparatus normally corrects various aberrations generated in an optical lens in addition to operations such as focusing and zooming by appropriately moving each of a plurality of optical lenses in a direction along the optical axis. It is usual to be configured to perform the above. In this case, the position on the optical axis of each optical lens in a predetermined state is configured to be accurately positioned at a position defined by the manufacturer. That is, when a certain predetermined state (for example, a predetermined zoom position) is set, each optical lens is disposed at a predetermined position (a normal position specified by the manufacturer) and changed. It is normal not to be able to.

  However, if the predetermined optical lens is moved to a position other than that specified by the manufacturer, for example, a part of the image quality (for example, four corners) is deteriorated, or an aberration or the like to be suppressed at the normal position is generated. For example, a more effective and artistic image can be acquired.

  On the other hand, in recent years, an operation member such as a so-called touch panel is provided on a display screen of a display device provided in the photographing apparatus, and an image displayed on the display screen of the display device or an instruction displayed on the display screen. Various types of indicators that can perform various operations by performing a touch operation or a slide operation on an index or the like through a touch panel have been put into practical use. An operation system using an operation member typified by this touch panel has an advantage that an intuitive operation can be performed compared to a conventional operation system using an operation member such as a button or a dial.

  Therefore, it is convenient if the operation member such as the touch panel is positively adopted so that the intuitive operation by the user can be linked with the change setting of various setting values related to the image processing.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-described points, and the object of the present invention is that a user can arbitrarily set the position of the movable lens group of the photographing optical system to perform normal photographing. the captured image is to provide an imaging equipment capable of easily acquiring the artistic image wipe special image effect different.

In order to achieve the above object, an imaging apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention is an imaging apparatus having a plurality of movable lens groups movable along an optical axis, and each optical axis of the plurality of movable lens groups. an imaging optical system that allows changing the position on the lens control means for controlling so as to change the position on the optical axis of each of the movable lens in the photographing optical system, a display unit for displaying each kind information, display control means for controlling the information displayed on the display unit, and a plurality of position detecting means for detecting a position on the optical axis of the plurality of movable lens groups in the photographing optical system, the output signal of the upper Symbol position detecting means And a signal output unit that outputs position information of each movable lens group based on the display control unit, the display control unit controls to display the lens configuration diagram information related to the photographing optical system on the display unit, and Movable When changing the position of the lens group for controlling the display unit to display by changing the position display of the lens arrangement according to the lens configuration diagram displayed on the display unit.

According to the present invention, an artistic image to which a special image effect different from a normal captured image is added can be easily obtained by performing shooting by arbitrarily setting the position of the movable lens group of the shooting optical system. it is possible to provide an imaging equipment which can be acquired.

The block block diagram which shows the outline of the internal structure of the imaging device (camera) of one Embodiment of this invention The figure which shows the position on the optical axis in each state of the some lens group which comprises the imaging optical system of the lens barrel of the imaging device (camera) of FIG. FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram simply showing a plurality of lens groups in a lens barrel of the photographing apparatus (camera) of FIG. 1 and a driving mechanism of a movable lens group, and the fourth lens group is located closest to the imaging surface. Diagram showing the state FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram simply showing a plurality of lens groups in a lens barrel of the photographing apparatus (camera) of FIG. 1 and a drive mechanism of the movable lens group, and the fourth lens group is on the optical axis in the state of FIG. 3. The figure which shows the state when moving from the subject side to the subject side It is a figure which shows the effect | action at the time of imaging | photography using the imaging device (camera) of FIG. 1, Comprising: The figure which shows a mode that "lens customization mode" is set The figure which shows an example of the "lens customization mode" setting screen in the imaging device (camera) of FIG. The figure which shows an example of the "lens customization mode" detailed setting screen in the imaging device (camera) of FIG. The figure which shows the modification of the "lens customization mode" setting screen in the imaging device (camera) of FIG. The figure which shows another modification of the "lens customization mode" setting screen in the imaging device (camera) of FIG. The flowchart which shows the effect | action by the side of the body control part of the camera main body of the imaging device (camera) of FIG. The flowchart which shows the effect | action by the side of the lens control part of the lens barrel of the imaging device (camera) of FIG. 1 is an exemplary table of a list of lens specific information stored in advance in a flash memory of a lens barrel attached to the photographing apparatus (camera) of FIG.

  The present invention will be described below with reference to the illustrated embodiments.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, an optical image formed by, for example, a photographing optical system is sequentially converted into an image signal by a photoelectric conversion element or the like, and the obtained image signal is stored in a recording medium as image data of a predetermined form. This is an example of a case where the present invention is applied to an imaging device such as a digital camera or a video camera that is configured to include an image display device that can record and reproduce and display image data recorded on the recording medium as an image.

  In each drawing used for the following description, each component may be shown with a different scale in order to make each component large enough to be recognized on the drawing. Therefore, according to the present invention, the number of constituent elements, the shape of the constituent elements, the ratio of the constituent element sizes, and the relative positional relationship of the constituent elements described in these drawings are limited to the illustrated embodiments. It is not a thing.

  FIG. 1 is a block configuration diagram showing an outline of an internal configuration of a camera 1 that is a photographing apparatus of the present embodiment. First, a schematic configuration of a camera 1 that is a photographing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a photographing apparatus (hereinafter simply referred to as a camera) 1 of the present embodiment includes a camera body 2, a photographing lens barrel (hereinafter simply referred to as a lens barrel) 3, and an electronic viewfinder device (hereinafter referred to as a lens barrel). , Which is abbreviated as EVF).

  The camera 1 constitutes a so-called interchangeable lens camera system in which the lens barrel 3 is detachably attached to the camera body 2. Note that the EVF 4 is also detachably attached to the camera body 2.

  The lens barrel 3 includes a plurality of lens groups (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, etc .; details will be described later) composed of a plurality of optical lenses, and a plurality of lens support members (12 , 13, 14, 15 and the like; details will be described later), the fixed cylinder 11, the diaphragm mechanism 16, a plurality of drivers (17, 18, 19, 20; details will be described later), and the lens control unit 21. And a position sensor 22, which is a position detection unit, a flash memory 25, a lens operation unit 24, a lens side interface 26, and the like.

  The lens control unit 21 is a control circuit that comprehensively controls the lens barrel 3 in cooperation with a later-described body control unit 66 on the camera body 2 side. For this purpose, the lens control unit 21 is electrically connected to the drivers (17, 18, 19, 20), the position sensor 22, the lens operation unit 24, the flash memory 25, the lens side interface 26, and the like.

  The lens control unit 21 in the lens barrel 3 includes circuit units such as a focus control unit 21a, a zoom control unit 21b, and an aperture control unit 21c. The focus control unit 21a is a control circuit that drives and controls the focus optical system 13 via a focus driver 17 for driving a second group (focus) lens support cylinder, which will be described later. The zoom control unit 21b is a control circuit that drives and controls the zoom optical system 14 via a zoom driver 18 for driving a third group (zoom) lens support cylinder described later. The aperture control unit 21 c is a control circuit that drives and controls the aperture mechanism 16 via the aperture driver 19.

  As described above, the lens barrel 3 includes a plurality of lens groups including a plurality of optical lenses and the like. The plurality of optical lenses are arranged along the optical axis O. Thus, the plurality of optical lenses form an optical image of a subject and form a subject image on a light receiving surface of an image sensor 52 (described later).

  The photographing optical system in the lens barrel 3 includes five lenses, a first lens group 3a, a second lens group 3b, a third lens group 3c, a fourth lens group 3d, and a fifth lens group 3e (not shown in FIG. 1). (Details will be described later; see FIGS. 2 to 4).

  The plurality of lens groups are arranged side by side at a predetermined interval from the front end side of the lens barrel 3 so that the optical axes O of all the optical lenses constituting each lens group coincide with each other. In order to avoid complication of the drawing, in FIG. 1, a first lens group 3a that is a fixed lens group, a second lens group 3b, a third lens group 3c, and a fourth lens group 3d that are movable lens groups. Only the fifth lens group 3e, which is a fixed lens group, is not shown.

  Of the photographing optical system in the lens barrel 3, the second lens group 3b is a focus lens group that mainly contributes to the focus adjustment operation. The second lens group 3 b is held by a second lens group support cylinder 13 that is a movable lens barrel (movable member), and the second lens group support cylinder 13 is under the control of the focus control section 21 a of the lens control section 21. The focus driver 17 is driven back and forth in the direction of the optical axis O.

  The focus driver 17 which is a driving means of the second lens group support cylinder 13 drives, for example, a linear motor type driving source (actuator) such as a voice coil motor (VCM), a driving mechanism of the driving source, and the driving source. An electric circuit to be controlled is included.

  The third lens group 3c and the fourth lens group 3d are zoom lens groups that mainly contribute to the optical scaling operation of the subject image. The third lens group 3c is held by a third lens group support cylinder 14 which is a movable member. The third lens group support cylinder 14 is used for driving a third group (zoom) lens support cylinder under the control of the lens control unit 21. It is driven back and forth in the direction of the optical axis O by a zoom driver 18 as driving means. The fourth lens group 3d is held by a fourth lens group support cylinder 15, and the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 is moved in the direction of the optical axis O by a driver 20 which is a driving means for driving the fourth lens group support cylinder. It is driven back and forth. In this case, the drive control of the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 is performed according to the movement direction and the movement amount of the third lens group support cylinder 14. Therefore, the driver 20 is a drive unit that performs an auxiliary role of zooming control.

  The zoom driver 18 and the fourth lens group support cylinder drive driver 20 include, for example, a drive source (actuator) such as a stepping motor, a drive mechanism of the drive source, and an electric circuit for driving and controlling the drive source. Composed.

  The third lens group support cylinder 14 and the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 are connected to each other by an urging member such as a coil spring, for example, in a driving mechanism between them (for example, a backlash in a driving force transmission mechanism). It is configured to absorb the generated movement error (not shown).

  The aperture mechanism 16 is a mechanism unit that adjusts the amount of light from the subject passing through the plurality of optical lenses. The aperture mechanism 16 is driven and controlled by the lens control unit 21 via an aperture driver 19 for driving the aperture mechanism. The aperture driver 19 includes a driving source such as a stepping motor and a driving mechanism that transmits the driving force.

  The flash memory 25 is a storage medium in which various types of information such as product information related to the lens barrel 3 and unique lens information (including, for example, a lens configuration diagram and an optical path diagram; see FIG. 12) are stored in advance. The lens control unit 21 appropriately reads various information (data) necessary from the flash memory 25 and refers to it when executing various controls. The lens control unit 21 can also write predetermined information (data) to the flash memory 25 as necessary.

  FIG. 12 is an example of lens specific information stored in advance in a flash memory 25 provided in each lens barrel 3.

  The position sensor 22 is position detection means for detecting the respective positions of the second lens group support cylinder 13, the third lens group support cylinder 14, and the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 on the optical axis O. A detection signal from the position sensor 22 is output to the lens control unit 21. Thus, the lens control unit 21 controls the driving of the lens support cylinders (13, 14, 15), which are movable barrels, based on the output signal of the position sensor 22 via the drivers (17, 18, 20). Do it.

  In the camera 1, as the position detection means (position sensor 22) for detecting the position of each lens support tube (13, 14, 15), for example, other lens support tubes (13, 14, 15) Relative position detection sensor for detecting a relative position with respect to the support cylinder and the like, and absolute position detection for detecting an absolute position (for example, a reference position) of each lens support cylinder (13, 14, 15) with respect to the fixed cylinder 11 Sensors and the like are included.

  Specifically, for example, a magnetic sensor element (MR sensor element) or the like is applied as a position sensor for detecting the position of the second lens group support cylinder 13. Further, as a position sensor for detecting the positions of the third and fourth lens group support cylinders 14 and 15, for example, a photo interrupter (PI), a linear encoder, or the like is applied.

  The magnetic sensor (MR (Magneto Resistive) sensor) is, for example, a sensor element fixed on the movable member (second lens group support cylinder 13) side, and a part facing the sensor element, which is a fixed member (fixed cylinder 11). ) Side relative position detection sensor constituted by a magnetic scale fixed on the side and formed with magnetic force.

  The absolute position detection sensor corresponds to, for example, two sensor elements such as a photo interrupter fixed on the fixing member (fixed cylinder 11) side with a predetermined interval in the direction of the optical axis O, and the two sensor elements. And a light shielding plate fixed to the movable member (third and fourth lens group support cylinders 14 and 15) side (see FIGS. 3 and 4 described later).

  The lens side interface 26 includes a plurality of electrical contact members provided on an electrical circuit connected to the lens control unit 21. Correspondingly, a body-side interface 68 (electrical contact member) is provided on the camera body 2 side at a position facing the lens-side interface 26. When the lens barrel 3 and the camera body 2 are integrally connected, the lens-side interface 26 and the body-side interface 68 are brought into contact with each other, so that the lens control unit 21 of the lens barrel 3 and the camera body are brought into contact with each other. The electrical connection between the two body controllers 66 is established.

  Thus, when the lens barrel 3 and the camera body 2 are electrically connected via the lens side interface 26 and the body side interface 68, the lens control unit 21 and the body control unit 66 can communicate with each other. Become. Thereby, various information (data) etc. are transmitted / received between the lens control part 21 and the body control part 66 suitably at a predetermined timing. Specifically, for example, the lens control unit 21 records an information signal (data) signal corresponding to an instruction signal generated from a lens operation unit 24 described later, an output signal (detection signal) from the position sensor 22, or the like in the flash memory 25. The unique information and the like of the lens barrel 3 that has been used are transmitted to the body control unit 66. In this case, the lens control unit 21 functions as a signal output unit. On the other hand, a body control unit 66 described later transmits a predetermined control signal (such as a drive control signal) according to an instruction signal from a body side operation unit 65 (described later) to the lens control unit 21.

  The lens operation unit 24 is, for example, various instruction operation members for performing a switching operation of a focus adjustment operation mode (automatic focus adjustment operation mode (AF mode), manual focus adjustment operation mode (MF mode)), a zoom operation, or the like. In addition to (switches and electric circuits thereof), the camera is configured to include operation members, switches, and the like for switching between normal shooting mode and macro shooting mode.

  On the other hand, the camera body 2 includes a shutter mechanism 50, a shutter driver 55 for driving the shutter mechanism, an image sensor 52, an analog processing unit 53, an analog-digital conversion unit (hereinafter referred to as an AD conversion unit) 54, and the like. An image pickup unit 51 configured to drive the image pickup unit 51, an AE processing unit 57, an AF processing unit 59, an image data processing unit 58, an image data compression / decompression unit 60, and a display. A display unit 61 including a driver 61a and a display panel 61b, a recording unit 62 including a memory interface (hereinafter abbreviated as a memory IF) 62a and a recording medium 62b, an SDRAM 63, a flash memory 64, a touch panel 65a, and the like. Including an operation unit 65, a body control unit 66, a communication bus 67, a body side interface 68, and a body. The side eyepiece interface 69, are mainly configured by including a power supply circuit 70 or the like.

  The shutter mechanism 50 is a mechanism unit that controls the exposure time of the subject image on the light receiving surface of the image sensor 52. The shutter mechanism 50 is driven and controlled by the body control unit 66 via the shutter driver 55.

  As the image pickup element 52, for example, a photoelectric conversion element such as a CMOS or a CCD is applied. The image pickup element 52 receives a subject image formed by a light beam collected by a photographing optical system (a plurality of optical lenses including 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, etc.) as a predetermined light receiving surface (imaging surface I; see FIG. 2). ), And photoelectric conversion processing is performed on this optical imaging. Here, the amount of light of the subject image (optical image) is converted into an analog signal representing the amount of charge. Due to such an action, the imaging element 52 is called a photoelectric conversion element. The electrical signal (analog image signal) generated by the image sensor 52 is output to the analog processing unit 53.

  The analog processing unit 53 receives an electrical signal (analog image signal) output from the image sensor 52, performs waveform shaping after reducing reset noise and the like, and then performs gain-up processing or the like so as to obtain a desired brightness. It is a signal processing part which performs. A signal processed by the analog processing unit 53 is output to the AD conversion unit 54.

  The AD conversion unit 54 is a signal processing unit that receives the analog image signal output from the analog processing unit 53 and converts it into a digital image signal (hereinafter referred to as image data). The image data output from the AD conversion unit 54 is sent to the SDRAM 63 via the communication bus 67 and temporarily stored therein.

  The communication bus 67 is a transfer path for transferring various data signals generated inside the camera 1 to various internal components constituting the camera 1. The communication bus 67 includes an imaging unit 51 (of which reference numerals 53 and 54, etc.), an AE processing unit 57, an AF processing unit 59, an image data processing unit 58, an image data compression / decompression unit 60, and a display driver. It is connected to a display unit 61 through 61a, a recording unit 62 through a memory IF 62a, an SDRAM 63, a body control unit 66, and the like.

  The SDRAM 63 is a storage unit that temporarily stores various data such as image data generated by the AD conversion unit 54 and image data processed by the image data processing unit 58 and the image data compression / decompression unit 60.

  The AE processing unit 57 is a data processing unit that calculates subject brightness based on image data after AD conversion temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63. In addition to the above image data, for example, a dedicated photometric sensor may be provided as the data handled by the AE processing unit 57, that is, the subject luminance calculation data, and output data from the dedicated photometric sensor may be used.

  The AF processing unit 59 is a data processing unit that extracts a high-frequency component signal from the image data and performs AF (Auto Focus) integration processing to acquire a focus evaluation value.

  The image data processing unit 58 is a data processing unit that performs various image processing on the image data read from the SDRAM 63. The image data after various processes are performed in the image data processing unit 58 is temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63 again.

  The image data compression / decompression unit 60 is a data processing unit that performs compression processing of image data by a predetermined compression method, expansion (decompression) processing of compressed image data compressed by a predetermined compression method, and the like. When the image data handled by the image data compression / decompression unit 60 is still image data, for example, compression and decompression processing by a method compliant with the JPEG standard is performed. When the image data handled in the image data compression / decompression unit 60 is moving image data, for example, Motion-JPEG standard or H.264 standard. The compression and decompression processing is performed by various methods based on the H.264 standard. When recording image data relating to a still image, the image data compression / decompression unit 60 reads out the image data from the SDRAM 63, performs a compression process on the read-out image data according to, for example, the JPEG compression method, and the like. A series of processing is executed in which the compressed JPEG image data is temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63 again.

  The body control unit 66 creates a JPEG file by adding necessary JPEG header information or the like to the JPEG image data temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63, and creates the created JPEG file via the memory IF 62a. The process of recording to is performed.

  The recording unit 62 is a configuration unit for recording various data including image data, and includes a memory IF 62a and a recording medium 62b.

  The memory IF 62a drives the recording medium 62b under the control of the body control unit 66, reads an image data file recorded on the recording medium 62b, and records image data in a predetermined format on the recording medium 62b. This is the interface to do.

  The recording medium 62b is a medium for recording image data or the like, and for example, a card-shaped semiconductor memory that is detachably attached to the camera body 2, a so-called memory card or the like is applied. Note that the form of the recording medium 62b is not limited to this form, and may be another form, for example, a medium fixed in the camera body 2, or an optical plate medium, a magnetic medium, etc. in addition to the semiconductor memory. Various forms can be applied.

  The display unit 61 includes, for example, a display panel 61b such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a display driver 61a that drives and controls the display panel 61b under the control of the body control unit 66.

  The display unit 61 receives, for example, the image data immediately after the shooting operation and records the image as a shooting acquisition result on the display panel 61b for a predetermined short time (for example, about 3 to 5 seconds) and records it on the recording medium 62b. Reproduction display of images (still images, moving images, etc.) based on already-completed image data (JPEG files, etc.) and live view display during shooting operation are performed. The display unit 61 also displays a menu display when performing various settings, a touch panel operation button display when performing various operations in conjunction with the touch panel 65a, and the like.

  Here, for example, when image reproduction is performed based on image data (JPEG file) already recorded on the recording medium 62b, the body control unit 66 has already recorded on the recording medium 62b via the image data compression / decompression unit 60. Desired data is read out from the image data (JPEG file) and subjected to expansion processing (development processing). The image data decompressed by the image data compression / decompression unit 60 is temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63. Subsequently, the body control unit 66 reads out the decompressed image data from the SDRAM 63 via the display driver 61a, converts the image data into a displayable video signal using the display unit 61, and then outputs the video signal to the display panel 61b. . Thereby, an image is displayed on the display panel 61b.

  The body control unit 66 is a control unit that comprehensively controls various sequences of the camera body 2. Further, the body control unit 66 functions as a control unit that drives and controls various drivers (17, 18, 19, 20) on the lens barrel 3 side in cooperation with the lens control unit 21. An operation unit 65 and a flash memory 64 are directly connected to the body control unit 66.

  The body control unit 66 includes a position designation control unit 66a, a touch detection control unit 66b, a designation prohibition unit 66c, a display control unit 66d, and the like.

  The position designation control unit 66a is a control circuit that receives an input signal from the touch panel 65a of the operation unit 65 and determines and designates a position on the display panel 61b corresponding to the touch operation.

  The touch detection control unit 66b is a control circuit that detects an input signal from the touch panel 65a of the operation unit 65 and determines a touch operation, a slide operation (slide direction, slide amount, etc.) and the like.

  For example, regarding the lens group information (details will be described later) displayed on the display panel 61b in the lens customization mode, the designation prohibition unit 66c visually displays the designation prohibition information included in the specific information of the attached lens barrel 3. It is a circuit part which performs control to display.

  The display control unit 66d controls the display unit 61 and the EVF 4 to perform display control of the display panel 61b and the eyepiece display unit 71 via a display driver 61a and an eyepiece display driver (not shown; described later). It is.

  The operation unit 65 includes a plurality of operation members for performing various operations on the camera 1 and corresponding operation switches. When the user operates a predetermined operation member of the operation unit 65, a predetermined instruction signal is generated from the corresponding operation switch, and the instruction signal is transmitted to the body control unit 66. Upon receiving this instruction signal, the body control unit 66 executes various sequences according to appropriate operations. Specifically, the operation unit 65 is used when various settings are made while viewing the menu display displayed on the display panel 61b based on the information called by the power button, the shutter release button, the menu button, and the menu button, for example. Control dial to be used, mode setting switch dial for switching operation modes, function buttons used for various setting operations, movie buttons used for starting and stopping movie shooting, playback buttons for switching to playback mode, etc. In addition, an input operation member for inputting various instructions, such as a touch panel 65a, is included. The touch panel 65a is disposed, for example, on the outer surface of the display panel 61b of the display unit 61. It should be noted that the functions and the like of various operation members included in the operation unit 65 are the same as those employed in a conventional photographing apparatus and the detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The flash memory 64 specifies various parameters necessary for camera operation such as white balance gain corresponding to the white balance mode, low-pass filter coefficient, image data of a granular pattern resembling the granular feeling due to silver salt particles, and the camera 1. Specific information, for example, various information such as product name and serial number are stored in advance. Furthermore, various programs executed by the body control unit 66 are stored in the flash memory 64 in advance. Therefore, the body control unit 66 reads and executes the program stored in the flash memory 64 at an appropriate timing. At that time, the body control unit 66 reads various parameters and the like necessary for various sequence processes from the flash memory 64.

  The body side interface 68 includes a plurality of electrical contact members provided on an electrical circuit connected to the body control unit 66 and is an interface for ensuring communication with the lens barrel 3. The body side interface 68 is an electrical contact member provided on the camera body 2 side in correspondence with the lens side interface 26 described above. When the lens barrel 3 and the camera body 2 are integrally connected, the lens-side interface 26 and the body-side interface 68 are in contact with each other, and the lens control unit 21 of the lens barrel 3 and the camera body 2 are in contact with each other. An electrical connection with the body control unit 66 is established.

  The body side eyepiece interface 69 is an interface for securing an electrical connection between the camera body 2 and the EVF 4 by being connected to an EVF interface 72 described later.

  The power supply circuit 70 includes a power supply such as a battery and a circuit for controlling the power supply. Under the control of the body control unit 66, each component unit or circuit in the camera body 2 and the lens barrel 3 of the camera 1 is provided. This is a component that appropriately supplies necessary power to the unit.

  The EVF 4 is an electronic viewfinder device that includes an eyepiece display unit 71, an EVF interface 72, and the like. As described above, the EVF 4 in the camera 1 of the present embodiment is configured to be detachable from the camera body 2 by inserting / removing the body side eyepiece interface 69 and the EVF interface 72.

  The eyepiece display unit 71 includes a display panel such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and an eyepiece display driver (not shown) that drives and controls the display panel.

  Since other components other than those described above are not directly related to the present invention, their detailed description and illustration are omitted assuming that they have the same configuration as a conventional general camera.

  Next, the movement state of the plurality of lens groups constituting the photographing optical system when the lens barrel 3 of the camera 1 of the present embodiment is in each state will be conceptually described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 shows only a plurality of lens groups constituting the photographing optical system of the lens barrel 3 of the camera 1 of the present embodiment, and the light of each lens group in each state of the lens barrel in (A) to (E). The position on the axis is shown. this house,
(A) is the position of each lens group (W-inf) at the zoom wide-angle end (position at the shortest focal length) in the normal photographing mode and at the infinite focus.
(B) is the position of each lens group (S-inf) at the zoom intermediate position (position at the intermediate focal length) in the normal shooting mode and at the infinite focus.
(C) is a zoom intermediate position (position at an intermediate focal length) in the normal photographing mode, and each lens group position at the time of focusing at infinity when the zoom optical system is disposed at the same position as in the macro mode. (M1-inf),
(D) is the position of each lens group (T-inf) at the zoom telephoto end (longest focal position) in the normal photographing mode and at the infinite focus.
(E) is the position of each lens group (M2-X) in a predetermined state in the macro mode,
Respectively.

  Note that the intermediate position shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C indicates a focal length that can be changed by the lens barrel 3, that is, a predetermined position between the wide-angle end and the telephoto end.

  Further, the state of each lens group position (M1-inf) shown in FIG. 2C is a state between the intermediate focal length state of FIG. 2B and the telephoto end state of FIG. This is a state during zooming.

  The plurality of lens groups (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e) are arranged side by side along the optical axis O in a state where the optical axes O coincide with each other, and the movable lens groups (3b, 3c, 3d) among them are arranged. It moves in the direction along the optical axis O.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the photographing optical system employed in the lens barrel 3 of the camera 1 of the present embodiment has a first lens group 3a (tip-side fixed lens) having negative refractive power in order from the subject side to the imaging surface I side. Group), negative lens second lens group 3b (focus lens group), positive power third lens group 3c (zoom lens group A), negative power fourth lens group 3d (zoom lens group B), The fifth lens group 3e (imaging surface I side fixed lens group) having positive refractive power.

  In the normal photographing mode, a zooming operation (zooming) is performed from the wide-angle end (W-inf) shown in FIG. 2 (A) to the telephoto end (T-inf) shown in FIG. 2 (D). In each lens group, the first lens group 3a is fixed, the second lens group 3b moves along a convex locus on the imaging surface I side, the third lens group 3c moves only on the subject side, The fourth lens group 3d moves only to the subject side, and the fifth lens group 3e is fixed.

  The focusing operation (focusing) in the normal photographing mode is performed by moving the second lens group 3b in the optical axis O direction. The focusing operation from the long distance side to the short distance side is performed by extending the second lens group 3b toward the subject side.

  Note that close-up photography can be performed by extending the second lens group 3b further to the subject side than during normal photography. As described above, when the second lens group 3b is moved in the proximity region, the lens aberration is satisfactorily suppressed when the third and fourth lens groups 3c and 3d are arranged as shown in FIG. To be able to.

  When the mode is switched to the macro mode shown in FIG. 2E, the second, third, and fourth lens groups 3b, 3c, and 3d are in predetermined positions (predetermined positions) in the movable region in the normal photographing mode. )

  In the example shown in FIG. 2, the second lens group 3b (focus lens group) moves to the position at the telephoto end infinite focus (T-inf) in the normal photographing mode shown in FIG. On the other hand, the third lens group 3c moves to a predetermined position (specified position) in a region between the intermediate focal length state shown in FIG. 2B and the telephoto end state shown in FIG. . The fourth lens group 3d moves to the imaging surface I side relative to the relative position with the second lens group 3b in the normal photographing mode.

  In FIG. 2, the moving direction of the lens group when the lens group arrangement (D) is switched to the macro mode (E) at the telephoto end infinite focus in the normal shooting mode is indicated by an arrow. Apart from this, for example, when switching to the macro mode when in the lens group arrangement (A) at the time of wide-angle end infinite focus in the normal shooting mode, the second, third and fourth lens groups Each of the lens groups 3b, 3c, and 3d moves from the lens position shown in FIG. 2A to the subject side and is disposed at a predetermined position shown in FIG.

  Focusing in the macro mode is performed by moving the second lens group 3b in the direction of the optical axis O. The focusing operation to the short distance is performed by moving the second lens group 3b to the subject side, and the focusing operation to the long distance is performed by moving the second lens group 3b to the imaging surface I side.

  As described above, the position of the movable lens group is detected by the position sensor 22 as position detecting means. Since each of the movable lens groups (3b, 3c, 3d) is individually driven and controlled, a corresponding detection sensor is provided to detect each position.

  Here, for example, the configuration of the position detecting means of the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 will be briefly described below with reference to FIGS.

  3 and 4 are conceptual diagrams simply showing a plurality of lens groups in the lens barrel of the camera according to the present embodiment and a driving mechanism of the movable lens group among them. Among these, FIG. 3 shows a state in which the fourth lens group 3d is located closest to the imaging surface I. FIG. 4 shows a state when the fourth lens group 3d moves on the optical axis from the state of FIG. 3 to the subject side.

  As described above, in the lens barrel 3 of the camera 1 of the present embodiment, the first lens group 3a (first lens group support member 12; see FIG. 1) and the fifth lens group 3e (support member not shown). The fixed cylinder 11 is a fixing member, and holds the second lens group support cylinder 13 holding the second lens group 3b, the third lens group support cylinder 14 holding the third lens group 3c, and the fourth lens group 3d. The fourth lens group support tube 15 is a movable member. The second lens group support tube 13 is driven by a focus driver 17. The third lens group support tube 14 is driven by a zoom driver 18. The fourth lens group support tube 15 is driven by a driver 20.

  For example, the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 is provided with a light shielding plate 15a. On the other hand, the light shielding plate 15a passes through the portion on the fixing member (fixed cylinder 11) side corresponding to the light shielding plate 15a. In addition, two sensor elements 22ba and 22bb such as a photo interrupter are fixedly provided at a predetermined interval in the optical axis O direction.

  In the lens barrel 3 thus configured, for example, when the fourth lens group 3d is at the position shown in FIG. 3, that is, the position closest to the imaging surface I, the two photointerrupters 22ba and 22bb are both in the off state. A “passing” state is established (first region).

  When the fourth lens group support tube 15 moves from this state to the subject side (front side; left side in FIGS. 3 and 4) along the optical axis O, the light shielding plate 15a of the fourth lens group support tube 15 moves rearward. Only the photo interrupter 22bb on the side is shielded (ON state) (not shown; second region). At this time, one photo interrupter 22ba is in the “passing” state indicating the off state, and the other photo interrupter 22bb is in the “light shielding” state indicating the on state (not shown).

  When the fourth lens group support tube 15 further moves toward the subject side along the optical axis O from this state, the light shielding plate 15a of the fourth lens group support tube 15 simultaneously blocks the two photo interrupters 22ba and 22bb ( ON state (not shown; third region).

  When the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 further moves toward the subject side along the optical axis O from this state, as shown in FIG. 4, the light shielding plate 15a of the fourth lens group support cylinder 15 has two photo interrupters 22ba, Only the front photo interrupter 22ba of 22bb is shielded (FIG. 4; fourth region). At this time, the front-side photo interrupter 22ba is in the “light-shielding” state indicating the on state, and the rear-side photo interrupter 22bb is in the “passing” state indicating the off state.

  Thus, the absolute position of the fourth lens group 3d can be detected by detecting the output signals of the two photo interrupters 22ba and 22bb.

  The effect | action at the time of imaging | photography using the camera 1 of this embodiment comprised as mentioned above is demonstrated below using FIGS.

  When the camera 1 is in a power-on state and is in a shooting standby state in which a shooting operation can be performed, the user operates a predetermined operation member among various operation members included in the operation unit 65 of the camera body 2. By doing so, various settings for the camera 1 can be made. Examples of settings that can be made here include selection settings for various types of shooting operation modes and detailed condition settings in the selected shooting operation mode in the shooting mode.

  In the camera 1 of the present embodiment, specifically, for example, an operation mode called “lens customization mode” can be selected in a shooting mode in which a shooting operation is performed. In this “lens customization mode”, the movable lens group of the plurality of lens groups constituting the imaging optical system is arranged at a position (on the optical axis) different from the lens position that should be set during normal shooting. As a result, the acquired captured image is a kind of imaging operation mode in which a special effect (for example, a descriptive effect in which lens aberration is intentionally generated) is given.

  When the user operates the predetermined operation member of the operation unit 65 to select and set the “lens customization mode” when the camera 1 is in the shooting standby state, the body control unit 66 receives the instruction signal and the lens control unit 66 receives the instruction signal. Communication with the control unit 21 is performed to acquire unique information of the mounted lens barrel 3. The acquired lens specific information is temporarily stored in the SDRAM 63.

  Subsequently, the body control unit 66 controls the display unit 61 to display the lens configuration diagram 61o on the display screen 61x (see FIGS. 5 and 6) of the display panel 61b based on the lens specific information and display the display. A mode name display 61p that displays the “lens customization mode” at a predetermined position on the screen and a plurality of touch icons that can be displayed using the touch panel 65a during display of the display screen are displayed. Examples of the touch icon include a “group selection” button indicated by reference numeral 61m in FIGS. 5 and 6 and an “end” button (indicated by reference numeral 61n in FIG. 5) for exiting this setting mode. 6). In the vicinity of the lens configuration diagram 61o, an availability display 61p indicating whether customization (lens position change) is possible is displayed. Specifically, in the illustration of FIG. 6, an example is shown in which the availability indication 61p is attached to the movable lenses 3b, 3c, and 3d that can be customized. The display shown in FIG. 6 is, for example, a “lens customization mode” setting screen.

  In a state where the “lens customization mode” setting screen is displayed, the user performs touch operation on the touch panel 65a using the finger 100 or the like as shown in FIG. 5 to customize (for example, change the position on the optical axis). The desired movable lens group is selected from among the movable lens groups that are enabled. As the selection operation, for example, after touching the target part on the display panel 61b on the touch panel 65a, the group selection button 61m is touch-operated. Further, as an operation different from this, for example, the target part on the display panel 61b may be a long press touch operation, or the touch operation may be performed twice continuously within a predetermined time or less.

  When the selection operation of the movable lens group desired to be customized (position change on the optical axis) is performed by the touch operation described above, the display panel 61b of the display unit 61 is switched to the display shown in FIG. On the display screen 61x, a live view image display frame 61t, a “return” button 61s for returning to the setting screen of FIGS. 5 and 6, a slide bar 61r for adjusting the displacement of the moving amount, and the like are displayed. Is done. The display shown in FIG. 7 is referred to as a “lens customization mode” detailed setting screen.

  Here, the user sets the camera 1 toward the subject 101 as shown in FIG. Accordingly, a live view image of a predetermined range including the subject 101 is displayed in the live view image display frame 61t of the detailed setting screen in FIG.

  The user performs the slide operation of the slide bar 61r while viewing the live view image of the live view image display frame 61t on the detailed setting screen of FIG. When the slide operation of the slide bar 61r is performed, the movable lens group actually selected by the above operation moves in the direction along the optical axis. In the meantime, the live view image is continuously displayed. That is, in the live view image display frame 61t, an image reflecting in real time the image effect when the movable lens group is moved according to the operation of the slide bar 61r is displayed. Therefore, the user can make fine adjustments to obtain a desired image effect by checking the live view image while operating the slide bar 61r.

  As described above, in the lens barrel 3 in the camera 1 of the present embodiment, the third lens group 3c and the fourth lens group 3d in the movable lens group are configured so as to exhibit a zooming effect. Yes. In this case, if only one of the third lens group 3c and the fourth lens group 3d is arranged at a position shifted from the specified position, aberration occurs in the peripheral portion of the screen as shown in FIG. Thus, it is possible to acquire an image with an effect different from the normal lens performance.

  FIG. 8 is a modification of the “lens customization mode” setting screen shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

  In the example of FIG. 8, reference numerals 61p, 61m, 61n, and 61q are the same as those in FIG. In FIG. 8, in addition to this, the lens configuration is indicated by characters 61u (corresponding to the symbol 61o in FIG. 6). Further, in FIG. 8, in addition to the customization availability display 61q, the customization availability is also displayed based on character information.

  Although the image information is displayed on the setting screen of FIG. 6 described above, in the modified example shown in FIG. 8, the setting screen is composed of only character information. In the example of FIG. 6, a screen that can be easily understood visually can be configured by image display, but the amount of unique information recorded in advance in the flash memory 25 of the lens barrel 3 increases. In contrast, the example of FIG. 8 has an advantage that the data amount of the unique information is small.

  FIG. 9 shows another modification of the “lens customization mode” setting screen shown in FIGS. In the example shown in FIG. 9, an image obtained by adding an optical path diagram to the lens configuration diagram is displayed in the display area denoted by reference numeral 61o. Other displays are the same as those in FIGS. The imaging optical system of the lens barrel shown in the example shown in FIG. 9 is different from the imaging optical system of the lens barrel shown in the example shown in FIG.

  The operation of the camera 1 of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the body control unit side of the camera body. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the lens barrel on the lens control unit side.

  When the camera 1 is turned on, in step S11 in FIG. 10, the body control unit 66 confirms whether or not the currently set operation mode is the shooting mode. If it is confirmed that the shooting mode is set, the process proceeds to the next step S12. On the other hand, if it is set to a mode other than the shooting mode, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S12, the body control unit 66 monitors the state of the body-side interface 68, and determines whether or not another lens barrel 3 has been mounted by performing an attachment / detachment operation of the lens barrel 3, that is, a lens replacement operation. Check. If it is confirmed that the lens has been exchanged, the process proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if the lens replacement is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S <b> 13, the body control unit 66 executes a lens communication process for establishing communication with the lens control unit 21. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S <b> 14, the body controller 66 determines information about the lens barrel 3 established by the above-described step S <b> 13 (or previously executed) lens communication process, that is, the lens barrel 3 currently attached to the camera body 2. Among them, various types of information such as the lens type as lens specific information and the current lens group state (for example, focus setting position, zoom setting position, etc.) are acquired. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S15.

  It should be noted that although the lens replacement operation has not been confirmed in the process of step S13, communication cannot be performed in the process of next step S14, or lens communication is performed in the process of step S13. In the case where the processing cannot be established, for example, the lens barrel 3 is not attached to the camera body 2, or a situation such as a bad attachment state is conceivable. In this case, the body control unit 66 needs to take measures such as controlling the display unit 61 to display a warning display to that effect, but in this flowchart, the processing in that case is omitted. .

  Here, the processing sequence in the lens control unit 21 of the lens barrel 3 when the processes in steps S13 and S14 are executed in the body control unit 66 of the camera body 2 is shown in the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S41 of FIG. 11, the lens control unit 21 determines the current lens state.

  Subsequently, in step S42, the lens control unit 21 monitors the state of the lens side interface 26 to confirm whether or not a lens replacement operation has been performed. If it is confirmed that the lens has been exchanged, the process proceeds to step S48. On the other hand, if the lens replacement is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S43.

  In step S43, the lens control unit 21 confirms whether or not regular communication with the body control unit 66 of the camera body 2 is established. If it is confirmed that the regular communication is established, the process proceeds to step S44. If regular communication has not been established, the process returns to step S41 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  After confirming the establishment of regular communication with the camera body 2 and proceeding to step S44, in this step S44, the lens control unit 21 displays the currently set lens state (position information of each lens group, etc.) on the body. It transmits toward the control part 66. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S45, the lens control unit 21 waits for reception of a camera signal from the body control unit 66 side. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S46.

  In step S46, the lens control unit 21 confirms the instruction signal from the camera. If the instruction signal from the camera is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step S47. If the instruction signal from the camera is not confirmed, the process returns to step S41 and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In step S47, the lens control unit 21 performs corresponding lens control, aperture control, and the like according to the received camera instruction signal. Then, it returns to the process of step S41 and repeats the subsequent processes.

  On the other hand, when the lens exchange operation is confirmed in the process of step S42 described above and the process proceeds to the process of step S48, in this step S48, the lens control unit 21 newly attaches the lens mirror that has been mounted by the current lens exchange operation. Of the unique information about the cylinder 3, image information and the like of each lens group is transmitted to the body control unit 66. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S49.

  In step S <b> 49, the lens control unit 21 confirms whether the lens group position information and the like related to the lens barrel 3 that was previously mounted is stored in the flash memory 25. If the lens group position information or the like is stored, the process proceeds to the next step S50. In step S50, the lens control unit 21 executes a process for resetting the position information in the flash memory 25. To do. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S51. On the other hand, if the lens group position information or the like is not stored in the process of step S49, the process proceeds to step S51.

  In step S <b> 51, the lens control unit 21 transmits position information of each lens group that is currently set for the new lens barrel 3 that is currently mounted to the body control unit 66. Then, it returns to the process of step S41 and repeats the subsequent processes.

  As described above, the lens control unit 21 of the lens barrel 3 and the body control unit 66 of the camera body 2 communicate with each other. Thereby, the body control unit 66 acquires information such as the unique information of the lens barrel 3 and the state at that time.

  Returning to FIG. 10, in step S <b> 15, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 and confirms whether or not the “lens customization mode” has been selected from various shooting modes in the shooting mode. Here, if it is confirmed that the “lens customization mode” has been selected, the process proceeds to step S25. On the other hand, if the “lens customization mode” is not selected, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S <b> 16, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 and follows any operation for instructing AE processing, AF processing, or the like. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S17.

  In step S <b> 17, the body control unit 66 controls the imaging unit 51 via the imaging driver 56 to continuously acquire image data, and controls the display unit 61 to continuously display images based on the acquired image data. The live view image display process (so-called through image process) displayed on the display panel 61b is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S18.

  In step S18, the body control unit 66 controls the display unit 61 to display an operation unit for performing a photographing operation on the display screen of the display panel 61b. The operation unit display is a display for making it possible to perform preparatory operations relating to shooting, such as zooming, focusing, AF, and the like, using the touch panel 65a. Since such an operation unit display is a general action in a camera that can perform a shooting operation using a touch panel in recent years, it is assumed that it conforms to that and will not be described in detail.

  In step S <b> 19, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 to check whether or not a shooting preparation operation has been performed. If the shooting preparation operation is confirmed here, the process proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if the shooting preparation operation is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S <b> 22, the body control unit 66 confirms whether or not the lens operation unit 24 on the lens barrel 3 side has been operated through communication with the lens control unit 21. Here, if the operation of the lens operation unit 24 is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S23. If the operation of the lens operation unit 24 is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S23, the body control unit 66 performs drive control of the target lens (movable lens group) within the drive controllable range. That is, zooming control, focusing control, etc. are executed within a specified range in which drive control is possible according to the instruction. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, the body control unit 66 executes a parameter changing process corresponding to the operation performed in the process of step S19. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S20, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 and confirms whether or not a predetermined shutter release operation (such as a predetermined shutter release button pressing operation or a release operation using the touch panel 65a) has been performed. If the shutter release operation is confirmed here, the process proceeds to step S21. On the other hand, if the shutter release operation is not confirmed, the process returns to step S11, and the same process is performed thereafter.

  In step S <b> 21, the body control unit 66 controls the imaging unit 51, the display unit 61, etc., and executes normal shooting processing. Thereafter, the process returns to step S11, and the same process is performed thereafter.

  On the other hand, when it is confirmed in the process of step S15 that the “lens customization mode” is selected and the process proceeds to the process of step S25, the body control unit 66 acquires the acquired lens state information in step S25. Based on the above, the lens state display is performed using the display panel 61 b of the display unit 61. This lens state display is specifically the “lens customization mode” setting screen shown in FIG. 6 (FIGS. 8 and 9) described above.

  Subsequently, in step S26, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65, particularly the touch panel 65a, and confirms whether or not the movable lens group has been selected. In this case, the input signal of the touch panel 65a is handled by the touch detection control unit 66b of the body control unit 66. Here, when the selection operation of the movable lens group is confirmed, after the display screen of FIG. 6 is switched to the display screen of FIG. 7, the process proceeds to step S27. On the other hand, if the selection operation of the movable lens group is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S27, the user sets a desired movement amount by a slide operation or the like on the display screen of FIG. Thereby, the position designation control unit 66a of the body control unit 66 designates the position of the target lens group.

  Next, in step S28, the designation prohibition unit 66c of the body control unit 66 fixes the non-target lens at the current position.

  Subsequently, in step S29, the body control unit 66 determines the movable range of the target lens. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S31.

  The target lens, that is, the movable lens that can be designated by the user, can move only within a predetermined range along the optical axis in the lens barrel 3. In addition, since there are a plurality of movable lens groups in the present lens barrel 3, the movable range of each movable lens group varies depending on the currently set arrangement state of each movable lens group. Therefore, whether or not the target lens group can be arranged at a desired designated position is determined in view of the arrangement state of the non-target lens group at that time.

  If the selection operation of the movable lens group is not confirmed in step S26 described above and the process proceeds to step S30, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 (touch panel 65a) and performs a reset operation in step S30. Confirm whether or not If the reset operation is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32, the body control unit 66 executes a lens position reset process, that is, a process for returning to the normal lens position. The process proceeds to S31. On the other hand, if the reset operation is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S31.

  In step S31, the body control unit 66 monitors the operation unit 65 (touch panel 65a) and confirms whether or not a return button operation has been performed. Here, when the operation of the return button is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S <b> 16 and the same process is repeated thereafter. If the operation of the return button is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S25, and the same process is repeated thereafter.

  If it is determined in step S1 that the operation mode other than the shooting mode is set, the process proceeds to step S33. In step S33, the body control unit 66 is currently set. It is confirmed whether the operating mode is the playback mode. If it is confirmed that the playback mode is set, the process proceeds to the next step S34. On the other hand, if it is set to a mode other than the playback mode, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S36, the body control unit 66 executes an image communication process. This image communication processing is an operation mode in which, for example, wireless or wired communication is performed with an external device to transfer a captured image. Thereafter, the process returns to step S11.

  It should be noted that the operation mode in the camera 1 of the present embodiment has the above-described shooting mode, reproduction mode, and image communication mode. Of course, other operation modes may be used. However, the operation modes other than the above-described shooting modes are portions not directly related to the present invention, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Further, when it is assumed that an operation mode other than the shooting mode, playback mode, and image communication mode is provided, in the flowchart of FIG. The confirmation determination may be performed. In the present embodiment, since only the above three operation modes are provided, the processing returns to the above-described step S11 after the end of the image communication mode in the processing in step S36.

When it is confirmed that the playback mode is set in the process of step S33 described above and the process proceeds to the process of step S34, in this step S34, the body control unit 66
Image reproduction (display) processing for controlling the display unit 61, the recording unit 62, etc. to display, for example, an image based on the latest image data among the image data recorded on the recording medium 62b on the display screen of the display panel 61b. Execute. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S <b> 35, the body control unit 66 monitors the instruction signal from the operation unit 65 and confirms whether or not an instruction signal for changing the display image is generated. If the display image change instruction signal is confirmed here, the process proceeds to step S37. If the display image change instruction signal is not confirmed, the process proceeds to step S11 described above, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  In step S37, based on the received display image change instruction signal, the body control unit 66, for example, the image data immediately before the latest image being displayed or the oldest image data of the image data recorded on the recording medium 62b. An image change process for changing the image based on the above to the currently displayed image and displaying the image on the display unit 61 is executed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S11, and the subsequent processes are repeated.

  As described above, according to the above embodiment, the camera body 2 and the lens barrel 3 are configured to communicate with each other, and the lens barrel 3 (lens control unit 21) is stored in the flash memory 25 in advance. In response to a request from the camera body 2 (body control unit 66), the camera body 2 (body control unit 66) receives the received unique information and lens state information on the display unit 61 (display panel 61b) in a predetermined form. The lens-specific information (lens configuration diagram, optical path diagram, etc.) and lens state information (position information, movable range information, etc.) received in (1) are displayed.

  The user operates the touch panel 65a on the display unit 61 to change the position of the desired movable lens group while viewing the display unit 61 (display panel 61b) on which the lens information is displayed. Upon receiving this position change operation, the camera body 2 (body control unit 66) drives and controls the drivers 17, 18, and 20 for lens driving in cooperation with the lens barrel 3 (lens control unit 21).

  This configuration makes it easy to capture images with special image effects by shooting with the movable lens moved to any position (but within the movable range) that is different from the original lens position during normal shooting. Can be obtained.

Also, when setting the position of the movable lens, setting can be performed while viewing a live view image that reflects the image effect in real time, so it is possible to easily confirm in advance the result of the image effect that would be obtained by shooting. it can.
In the embodiment described above, various displays are performed using the display unit 61, but may be performed using the EVF 4.

  Each processing sequence described in each of the above-described embodiments can allow a procedure to be changed as long as it does not contradict its nature. Therefore, for each of the above-described processing sequences, for example, the order of the processing steps is changed each time the processing order is changed, the processing steps are executed simultaneously, or a series of processing sequences are executed. It may be.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications can of course be implemented without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, the above embodiments include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. For example, even if several constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the above-described embodiment, if the problem to be solved by the invention can be solved and the effect of the invention can be obtained, this constituent requirement is deleted. The configured structure can be extracted as an invention.

  The present invention is not limited to a photographing device that is an electronic device specialized for a photographing function such as a digital camera, and other forms of electronic devices having a photographing function, such as a mobile phone, a recording device, an electronic notebook, and a personal computer. The present invention can also be applied to various electronic devices with photographing functions, such as computers, game devices, televisions, watches, navigation devices using GPS (Global Positioning System).

1 ... Camera, 2 ... Camera body, 3 ... Lens barrel,
3a: first lens group, 3b: second lens group, 3c: third lens group, 3d: fourth lens group, 3e: fifth lens group,
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Fixed cylinder, 12 ... 1st lens group support member, 13 ... 2nd lens group support cylinder, 14 ... 3rd lens group support cylinder, 15 ... 4th lens group support cylinder,
15a: Light shielding plate, 16: Diaphragm mechanism,
17... Focus driver, 18... Zoom driver, 19... Aperture driver, 20.
21... Lens control unit, 21 a. Focus control unit, 21 b. Zoom control unit, 21 c.
22 ... Position sensor, 22ba, 22bb ... Photo interrupter,
24 …… Lens operation section, 25 …… Flash memory, 26 …… Lens side interface,
50 …… Shutter mechanism,
51... Imaging unit, 52... Image sensor, 53... Analog processing unit, 54.
55... Shutter driver, 56... Imaging driver, 57... AE processing unit, 58... Image data processing unit, 59 .. AF processing unit, 60.
61 …… Display section, 61a …… Display driver, 61b …… Display panel,
62... Recording unit, 62 a... Memory IF, 62 b.
63 ... SDRAM, 64 ... flash memory,
65 …… Operation unit, 65a …… Touch panel,
66... Body control unit, 66 a .. position designation control unit, 66 b... Touch detection control unit, 66 c .. designation prohibition unit, 66 d.
67 …… Communication bus, 68 …… Body side interface, 69 …… Body side eyepiece interface, 70 …… Power supply circuit,
71 …… Eyepiece display section, 72 …… EVF interface

Claims (5)

An imaging device having a plurality of movable lens groups movable along an optical axis ,
A photographing optical system capable of changing the position of each of the plurality of movable lens groups on the optical axis;
Lens control means for controlling to change the position on each optical axis of the movable lens group in the photographing optical system;
A display unit that displays each species information,
Display control means for controlling the information displayed on the display unit;
A plurality of position detecting means for detecting positions on the optical axis of a plurality of movable lens groups in the photographing optical system;
A signal output section for outputting the position information of each movable lens group based on the output signal of the upper Symbol position detecting means,
Have
The display control means controls the lens configuration diagram information relating to the photographing optical system to be displayed on the display unit, and when changing the position of the movable lens group, the lens displayed on the display unit. An imaging apparatus, wherein the display unit is controlled to change and display the position display of the lens configuration according to the configuration diagram .   When the operation mode of the photographing apparatus is set to the photographing mode, the camera further includes an operation unit that selects one of the plurality of photographing forms in the photographing mode.
  The lens control unit is one of the plurality of photographing forms, and the movable lens group in the photographing optical system is arranged at a predetermined position that is different from a lens position set during normal photographing. When the photographing mode is selected by the operation means, control is performed to change the position of the predetermined lens on the optical axis in the photographing optical system.
  The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   The display control means is one of the plurality of photographing forms, and the movable lens group in the photographing optical system is arranged at a predetermined position that is different from a lens position set during normal photographing. When the photographing mode is selected by the operation means, the display unit is controlled to change and display the position display of the lens configuration according to the lens configuration diagram displayed on the display unit.
  The photographing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein A touch panel corresponding to the display unit;
The display control means drives and controls driving means provided in each of the plurality of movable lens groups based on an operation instruction signal output in response to a touch operation on the touch panel. The photographing equipment described in 1 . The photographing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the signal output unit outputs movable range information of each of the plurality of movable lens groups .

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