CONTROL APPARATUS, LENS APPARATUS, IMAGE PICKUP APPARATUS, CAMERA SYSTEM, AND CONTROL METHOD

A control apparatus for a camera system that includes a lens apparatus including a first optical system and a second optical system and configured to move them relative to each other, and an image pickup apparatus including an image sensor and detachably attachable to the lens apparatus includes a processor configured to acquire a first evaluation value of the first optical system at a first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system, determine a second focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system based on an first object image formed by the first optical system and a second object image formed by the second optical system, acquire a second evaluation value of the second optical system at the second focus detection position, and move the first optical system and the second optical system based on the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

One of the aspects of the embodiments relates to a control apparatus, a lens apparatus, an image pickup apparatus, a camera system, and a control method.

Description of Related Art

A lens apparatus has conventionally been known in which a pair of left and right optical systems are disposed apart from each other by a predetermined distance (base length), and two image circles are imaged in parallel on a single image sensor. For this lens apparatus, images formed by the pair of left and right optical systems are recorded as moving images or still images for the left eye and the right eye, respectively, and when viewed using a three-dimensional display, VR goggles, etc. during playback, the right eye of the viewer views the image for the right eye and his left eye views the image for the left eye. At this time, the images with parallax are projected to the right and left eyes due to the base length of the pair of left and right optical systems, so the viewer can acquire a stereoscopic effect.

The pair of left and right optical systems to capture images with parallax needs focusing for each of the pair of left and right optical systems.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-175498 discloses binoculars that uses a single operation member that switches between left and right diopter adjustment by moving one optical system and focusing by moving both optical systems.

The binoculars disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2009-175498 performs the diopter adjustment and focusing by switching between them with a single operation member, and the operation becomes complicated and proper focusing is difficult due to erroneous operation.

SUMMARY

A control apparatus according to one aspect of the embodiment for a camera system that includes a lens apparatus including a first optical system and a second optical system and configured to move the first optical system and the second optical system relative to each other, and an image pickup apparatus including an image sensor and attachable to and detachable from the lens apparatus includes a memory storing instructions, and a processor configured to execute the instructions to acquire a first evaluation value of the first optical system at a first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system, determine a second focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system based on an first object image formed by the first optical system and a second object image formed by the second optical system, acquire a second evaluation value of the second optical system at the second focus detection position, and move the first optical system and the second optical system based on the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value.

A control apparatus according to another aspect of the embodiment for a camera system that includes a lens apparatus including a first optical system and a second optical system and is configured to move the first optical system and the second optical system relative to each other, and an image pickup apparatus that includes an image sensor and is attachable to and detachable from the lens apparatus includes a memory storing instructions; and a processor configured to execute the instructions to acquire a first evaluation value of the first optical system at a first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system, and move the first optical system and the second optical system based on the first evaluation value.

Each of a lens apparatus, an image pickup apparatus, and a camera system including the above control apparatus also constitutes another aspect of the embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In the following, the term “unit” may refer to a software context, a hardware context, or a combination of software and hardware contexts. In the software context, the term “unit” refers to a functionality, an application, a software module, a function, a routine, a set of instructions, or a program that can be executed by a programmable processor such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), or a specially designed programmable device or controller. A memory contains instructions or programs that, when executed by the CPU, cause the CPU to perform operations corresponding to units or functions. In the hardware context, the term “unit” refers to a hardware element, a circuit, an assembly, a physical structure, a system, a module, or a subsystem. Depending on the specific embodiment, the term “unit” may include mechanical, optical, or electrical components, or any combination of them. The term “unit” may include active (e.g., transistors) or passive (e.g., capacitor) components. The term “unit” may include semiconductor devices having a substrate and other layers of materials having various concentrations of conductivity. It may include a CPU or a programmable processor that can execute a program stored in a memory to perform specified functions. The term “unit” may include logic elements (e.g., AND, OR) implemented by transistor circuits or any other switching circuits. In the combination of software and hardware contexts, the term “unit” or “circuit” refers to any combination of the software and hardware contexts as described above. In addition, the term “element,” “assembly,” “component,” or “device” may also refer to “circuit” with or without integration with packaging materials.

Referring now to the accompanying drawings, a detailed description will be given of embodiments according to the disclosure. Corresponding elements in respective figures will be designated by the same reference numerals, and a duplicate description thereof will be omitted.

A camera system according to one embodiment includes a lens apparatus (interchangeable lens) that includes two optical systems (first optical system and second optical system) disposed in parallel (symmetrically), and an image pickup apparatus that configured to image two image circles in parallel on a single image sensor. The two optical systems are horizontally arranged, and separated by a base length. Viewed from the image side, an image formed by the right optical system (first optical system) is recorded as a moving or still image for the right eye, and an image formed by the left optical system (second optical system) is recorded as a moving image or still image for the left eye. By viewing a moving image or a still image (video) using a three-dimensional display, so-called VR goggles, or the like, the viewer's right eye views the right-eye image, and his left eye sees the left-eye image. At this time, images with parallax are projected to the right and left eyes due to the base length of the left and right optical systems, so the viewer can acquire a three-dimensional effect. Thus, the camera system according to this embodiment is a camera system for stereoscopic imaging that can form two images with parallax by the first optical system and the second optical system.

FIG.1is a sectional view of an interchangeable lens200according to one embodiment.FIGS.2A and2Bare exploded perspective views of the interchangeable lens200. In the following description, descriptions of the first optical system (right-eye optical system) are denoted by R, and descriptions of the second optical system (left-eye optical system) are denoted by L. Descriptions that are common to both the right-eye optical system and the left-eye optical system do not have the R or L suffix. Although the optical systems are disposed on the left and right sides in this embodiment, they may be disposed on the upper and lower sides.

The interchangeable lens200includes a first optical system201R and a second optical system201L. Each of the two optical systems is fixed to a lens top base300with a screw or the like, and is capable of imaging with an angle of view of 120 degrees or more. Each of the two optical systems has, in order from the object side, a first optical axis OA1, a second optical axis OA2substantially orthogonal to the first optical axis OA1, and a third optical axis OA3parallel to the first optical axis OA1. Each of the two optical systems includes a first lens (unit)211having a convex surface211A on the object side disposed along the first optical axis OA1, a second lens (unit)221disposed along the second optical axis OA2, third lenses (lens units)231A and231B disposed along the third optical axis OA3. Each of the two optical systems further includes a first prism220that bends a light beam parallel to the first optical axis OA1and guides it to the second optical axis OA2, and a second prism230that bends a light beam parallel to the second optical axis OA2to the third optical axis OA3. In the following description, the optical axis direction is a direction parallel to the first optical axis OA1, which is the direction extending to the object side and the imaging surface side.

FIG.3illustrates a positional relationship between each optical axis and image circles on the image sensor. A right-eye image circle ICR with an effective angle of view formed by the first optical system201R and a left-eye image circle ICL with an effective angle of view formed by the second optical system201L are arranged in parallel on an image sensor111of a camera body110. A size OA2, of each image circle and a distance between the image circle may be set so that the image circles do not overlap each other. For example, the light receiving range of the image sensor111is divided into left and right halves with respect to the center, The center of the right-eye image circle ICR may be set to an approximate center of the right area of the light receiving range, and the center of the left-eye image circle ICL may be set to an approximate center of the left area of the light receiving range.

In this embodiment, each optical system is a full-circumference fisheye lens, and an image formed on the imaging surface is a circular image covering a range of angle of view exceeding 180 degrees, as illustrated inFIG.3, two circular images are formed on the left and right sides. A distance between the first optical axis OA1R of the first optical system201R and the first optical axis OA1L of the second optical system201L is referred to as base length L1. The longer the base length L1is, the more the stereoscopic effect becomes during viewing. For example, assume that a sensor size is 24 mm long×36 mm wide, a diameter of the image circle is Φ17 mm, a distance L2between the third optical axes is 18 mm, and the length of the second optical axis is 21 mm. In a case where each optical system is arranged such that the second optical axis extends in the horizontal direction, the base length L1is 60 mm, which is approximately equal to the interpupillary distance of an adult. The diameter1D of the lens mount unit202may be shorter than the base length L1, and by making the distance L2between the third optical axes shorter than the diameter ΦD of the lens mount unit202, the three lens units231A and231B can be disposed inside the lens mount unit202. That is, a relationship of L1>ΦD>L2is established.

In viewing as a VR, the angle of view that gives a three-dimensional effect is about 120 degrees, but since a 120-degree field of view leaves a sense of discomfort, the angle of view is often increased up to 180 degrees. In this embodiment, the effective angle of view exceeds 180 degrees, and the size ΦD3of the image circle in the range of 180 degrees is smaller than the size ΦD2of the image circle.

FIG.4is a schematic configuration diagram of the camera system100. The camera system100includes an interchangeable lens200and a camera body110to which the interchangeable lens200is detachably attached.

The interchangeable lens200includes the first optical system201R, the second optical system201L, and a lens system control unit209. The camera body110includes the image sensor111, an A/D converter112, an image processing unit113, a display unit114, an operation unit115, a memory116, a body system control unit117, and a camera mount unit122.

In a case where the interchangeable lens200is attached to the camera body110via the lens mount unit202and the camera mount unit122, the body system control unit117and the lens system control unit209are electrically connected.

A right-eye image formed via the first optical system201R and a left-eye image formed via the second optical system201L are formed side by side on the image sensor111as object images. The image sensor111converts each formed object image (optical signal) into an analog electrical signal. The A/D converter112converts the analog electrical signal output from the image sensor111into a digital electrical signal (image signal). The image processing unit113performs various image processing on the digital electrical signal output from the A/D converter112.

The display unit114displays various information. The display unit114is realized by using an electronic viewfinder or a liquid crystal panel, for example. The operation unit115functions as a user interface for a photographer to give instructions to the camera system100. In a case where the display unit114has a touch panel, the touch panel also serves as the operation unit115.

The memory116stores various data such as image data subjected to image processing by the image processing unit113. The memory116also stores programs. The memory116is realized by using ROM, RAM, and HDD, for example.

The body system control unit117controls the camera system100as a whole. The body system control unit117is realized by using a CPU, for example.

FIG.5is a block diagram of a camera system according to this embodiment. The camera system includes the interchangeable lens200and the camera body110. The interchangeable lens200includes the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L. The interchangeable lens200further includes a first driving mechanism263R (third adjusting unit) that moves the first optical system201R and a second driving mechanism (fourth adjusting unit)263L that moves the second optical system201L. The interchangeable lens200includes a lens type information memory150. Here, the lens type information is configuration information of the optical system, and specifically, information including an identifier indicating whether or not the interchangeable lens200is a lens for VR imaging.

The camera body110includes the image sensor111, the operation unit151, a parallax calculator (determining unit)152, a focus detector (first acquiring unit, second acquiring unit)153, and a driving amount determining unit (control unit)154. The parallax calculator152, the focus detector153, and the driving amount determining unit154are included in the body system control unit117in this embodiment, but this embodiment is not limited to this example. For example, the lens system control unit209may has a configuration having functions equivalent to those of the parallax calculator152, the focus detector153, and the driving amount determining unit154. The parallax calculator152, the focus detector153, and the driving amount determining unit154may be configured as a control apparatus separate from the camera body110. The image sensor111includes a single image sensor, and two images, an image formed via the first optical system201R and an image formed via the second optical system201L, are formed on the imaging surface of the image sensor111. The operation unit151is, for example, a touch panel, a joystick, or the like, and is used by the user to select a focus detection position during autofocusing of the camera system. The parallax calculator152calculates a parallax amount between the object image formed via the first optical system201R and the object image formed via the second optical system201L based on configuration information of the optical system in the lens type information memory150. The parallax calculator152determines a second focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L based on the calculated parallax amount and the first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system201R. Here, the first focus detection position and the second focus detection position are imaging positions of the same object. The focus detector153acquires a focus detection evaluation value at the focus detection position designated by the operation unit151or the parallax calculator152. The driving amount determining unit154determines driving amounts of the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L from the focus detection evaluation value acquired by the focus detector153.

A description will now be given of a focus detection position determination method by the parallax calculator152according to this embodiment. In a camera system for VR imaging which includes an interchangeable lens having a plurality of optical systems and an image pickup apparatus having a single image sensor, in a case where the base length L1is set long so that images with a large stereoscopic effect can be captured, it is conceivable to adopt the bending optical system shown inFIG.1. At this time, it is necessary to make the distance L2between the third optical axes shorter than the base length L1and the diameter of the lens mount unit202.

The parallax calculator152first performs triangulation based on the focal lengths and the base length L1of the optical systems stored in the lens type information memory150, and the object distance information acquired by the focus detector153. Next, the parallax calculator152calculates a parallax amount on the imaging surface of the image sensor111between the object image formed by the first optical system201R and the object image formed by the second optical system201L. In order to calculate the parallax with high accuracy, the lens type information memory150may store optical information such as projection methods and distortion coefficients of the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L.

The parallax calculator152determines the focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L using the following equation (1):

where (X1, Y1) are coordinates on the imaging surface of the image sensor111of the focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system201R. (X2, Y2) are coordinates on the imaging surface of the image sensor111of the focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L. (Xp, Yp) is a parallax amount vector of an object on the imaging surface of the image sensor111. (L2,0) is a distance vector between the third optical axes. (XE, YE) is a shift vector from the ideal value of the distance between the third optical axes due to the mount attachment and detachment operations.

Referring now toFIGS.6A and6B, a description will be given of a focusing operation of the camera system of this embodiment.FIG.6Ais an example of a flowchart illustrating the focusing operation of the camera system by the body system control unit117according to this embodiment.

In step S501, the user operates the operation unit151to select a first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system201R.

In step S502, the focus detector153acquires a focus detection evaluation value (first evaluation value) of the first optical system201R at the first focus detection position selected by the user.

In step S503, the parallax calculator152calculates a parallax amount based on the focal lengths and base length L1of optical systems stored in the lens type information memory150, and the object distance information acquired by the focus detector153. Here, the parallax amount is a parallax amount between the object image formed by the first optical system201R and the object image formed by the second optical system201L, as described above.

In step S504, the parallax calculator152determines a second focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L based on the focus detection position of the first optical system201R, the distance L2between the third optical axes, and the parallax amount.

In step S505, the focus detector153acquires a focus detection evaluation value (second evaluation value) of the second optical system201L at the determined second focus detection position.

In step S506, the driving amount determining unit154determines driving amounts of the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L from the focus detection evaluation value of each optical system.

In step S507, the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are driven. Thereby, the focusing operations of the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L are performed.

FIG.6Bis another example of a flowchart illustrating the focusing operation of the camera system by the body system control unit117according to this embodiment.

In step S511, the user operates the operation unit151to select the first focus detection position corresponding to the first optical system201R.

In step S512, the focus detector153acquires the focus detection evaluation value (first evaluation value) of the first optical system201R at the first focus detection position selected by the user.

In step S513, the parallax calculator152detects feature points in each image formed and acquired by the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L.

In step S514, the parallax calculator152matches feature points pointing to the same object in images formed by different optical systems, and uses the result of feature point matching, and determines the second focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L.

In step S515, the focus detector153acquires the focus detection evaluation value (second evaluation value) of the second optical system201L at the determined second focus detection position.

In step S516, the driving amount determining unit154determines the driving amounts of the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L from the focus detection evaluation value of each optical system.

In step S517, the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are driven. Thereby, the focusing operations of the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L are performed.

Referring now toFIG.7, a description will be given of the operation of attaching the interchangeable lens200to the camera body110.FIG.7is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the camera system by the body system control unit117in a case where the interchangeable lens200according to this embodiment is attached.

In step S610, the body system control unit117detects that the interchangeable lens200is attached to the camera body110.

In step S620, the parallax calculator152identifies the lens type information stored in the lens type information memory150of the attached interchangeable lens200.

In step S630, it is determined using the lens type information whether the attached interchangeable lens200is a VR imaging lens. In a case where it is determined that the attached interchangeable lens200is a VR imaging lens, the processing of step S640is executed; otherwise, the processing of step S670is executed.

In step S640, the parallax calculator152selects a focus detection position determination method. In a case where the focus detection position determination method is selected and, for example, the interchangeable lens200is a lens for VR180 imaging, the parallax calculator152uses equation (1) in this example to determine a focus detection position corresponding to the second optical system201L.

In step S650, the camera body110performs bundle adjustment, for example, and detects an error from the design value and an optical axis shift (misalignment) due to mount attachment and detachment operations.

FIG.8is a flowchart illustrating a bundle adjustment method by the body system control unit117according to this embodiment.

In step S651, the image sensor111acquires a pair of images formed by the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L.

In step S652, the parallax calculator152detects feature points in the acquired image.

In step S653, the parallax calculator152matches feature points pointing to the same object in images formed by different optical systems, and extracts n feature point pairs.

In step S654, the parallax calculator152sets a plurality of error parameters for each optical system. For example, XERis a horizontal component of the optical axis shift of the first optical system201R due to the mount attachment and detachment operations, YERis a vertical component of the optical axis shift of the first optical system201R due to the mount attachment and detachment operations, XELis a horizontal component of the optical axis shift of the second optical system201L, and YELis a vertical component of the optical axis shift of the second optical system201L. At this time, a plurality of parameter sets P are set in which the components XER, YER, XEL, and YELare set slightly differently. That is, the parameter set P is defined as illustrated in equation (2) below:

In step S655, a reprojection error E for each parameter set P is calculated based on the following equation (3):

The projection function f is a function for converting the coordinates of the feature point imaged by the first optical system201R to the coordinates of the image imaged by the second optical system201L based on the focal length and base length of the interchangeable lens200.

In step S656, the parallax calculator152performs optimization calculation by the nonlinear least-squares method illustrated in equation (4) below, and determines one error parameter solution Pans∈P. A difference between the components XERand XELof the solution Pansand a difference between the components YERand YELof the solution Panscorrespond to the shift amount vector (XE, YE) of a distance between the third optical axes from the ideal value due to the mount attachment and detachment operations illustrated in equation (1):

In a case where bundle adjustment is performed, the processing returns to the flow inFIG.7. In step S660ofFIG.7, the parallax calculator152writes the optical axis shift Pansdue to the mount attachment and detachment operations to the lens type information memory150.

In step S670, the parallax calculator152stops functioning.

The method of calculating the optical axis shift Pansdue to the mount attachment and detachment operations for bundle adjustment is not limited to the method described in this example. For example, a sensor that calculates the optical axis shift Pansmay be mounted. The interchangeable lens200may include a calculator for the optical axis shift Pans.

FIG.9is a schematic configuration diagram of the camera system100according to this example. This example will discuss only configurations different from that of Example 1, and omit a description of common configurations.

The image sensor111can perform image-plane phase-difference AF by detecting a focus shift amount and focus shift direction. The interchangeable lens200includes a driving mechanism (first adjusting unit)261configured to move the lens top base300and a driving mechanism (second adjusting unit)262that is provided on the lens top base300and moves the first optical system201R. The driving mechanism261can move the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L in a direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111by moving the lens top base300.

The second optical system201L is fixed to the lens top base300. The first optical system201R is supported by the lens top base300so as to be movable in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111relative to the lens top base300by the driving mechanism262. Thereby, the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L can move relative to each other in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111. In this example, each of the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L includes a lens unit in which an imaging optical system is integrated, and focusing can be performed by extending the entire optical system. This example entirely extends the two optical systems, and can reduce a characteristic difference between the two optical systems. In this example, the first optical system201R is a first focus lens optical system, and the second optical system201L is a second focus lens optical system. The second optical system201L may be the first focus lens optical system, and the first optical system201R may be the second focus lens optical system.

The image sensor111is installed so that its imaging surface is parallel to the lens mount unit202. However, it is difficult to make the imaging surface perfectly parallel to the lens mount unit202due to manufacturing errors, and the image sensor111is actually fixed with its imaging surface slightly tilted relative to the lens mount unit202.FIG.10is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating the tilted image sensor111. The manufacturing process adjusts the interchangeable lens200so that a distance between the imaging position of the first optical system201R and the imaging position of the second optical system201L from the lens mount unit202, that is, a difference between the so-called flange back distances becomes 0. However, due to the tilt of the image sensor111, the two optical systems do not always have the best in-focus position. Accordingly, this example configures the two optical systems movable in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface by the driving mechanism262, and thereby adjusts the focal positions of the two optical systems.

Referring now toFIGS.11A,11B, and11C, a description will be given of the focusing operation procedure according to this example.FIGS.11A,11B, and11Cillustrate the focusing operation procedure according to this example.

FIG.11Aillustrates the camera system100before focusing. Assume that a focus difference (left-right focus difference) H1 between the two optical systems can be simply expressed by a difference between an R1 surface of the first lens211R disposed in the first optical system201R and an R1 surface of the first lens211L disposed in the second optical system201L. A focus shift amount is defined as a difference between the R1 surface of the first lens211R(L) and a line20OA provided on the interchangeable lens200, and a focus shift amount of the first optical system201R can be simply represented by H2R, a focus shift amount of the second optical system201L can be simply represented by H2L. The in-focus state is achieved in a case where the R1 surface of the first lens unit211R(L) and the line20OA provided on the interchangeable lens200overlap each other, that is, in a case where the focus shift amounts H2R and H2L become zero.

In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires two evaluation values (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the two optical systems, and determines the focus shift amount. In a case where the focus detection position of one of the two optical systems is determined based on the user's input, the focus detection position of the other of the two optical systems is determined according to the focus detection position determination method selected by the parallax calculator152. Based on the evaluation values obtained at the determined focus detection positions, it is confirmed whether the difference between the two evaluation values (left-right focus difference H1) is within the permissible range (predetermined value).

In this example, since the left-right focus difference H1 is not within the permissible range, the first optical system201R is moved using the driving mechanism262so that the left-right focus difference H1 becomes within the permissible range.FIG.11Billustrates the R1 surfaces of the first lenses211R and211L on the same plane, and illustrates that the left-right focus difference H1 is controlled to be within the permissible range. Thereafter, as illustrated inFIG.11C, the driving mechanism261simultaneously moves the two optical systems so that the focus shift amounts H2R and H2L are within the permissible range.

In this example, the driving mechanism261is driven after the driving mechanism262is driven.

As illustrated inFIG.12A, first, the driving mechanism261may be driven so that the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system201L is within the permissible range. Thereafter, as illustrated inFIG.12B, the driving mechanism262may be driven so that the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system201R is within the permissible range.

Referring now toFIGS.13A and13B, a description will be given of a focusing operation procedure in a case where the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system201L is within the permissible range and the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system201R and the left-right focus difference H1 are substantially equal.

FIG.13Aillustrates the camera system100before focusing. In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires two evaluation values (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the two optical systems, and determines the focus shift amounts. Next, it is confirmed whether a difference between the two evaluation values (left-right focus difference H1) is within the permissible range.

In this example, the left-right focus difference H1 is not within the permissible range, the first optical system201R is moved using the driving mechanism262so that the left-right focus difference H1 is within the permissible range. The focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system201L is originally within the permissible range, and as illustrated inFIG.13B, the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system201R becomes also within the permissible range and the in-focus states are acquired.

Referring now to14A and14B, a description will be given of a focusing operation procedure in a case where the left-right focus difference H1 is within the permissible range and the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system201R and the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system201L are equal.

FIG.14Aillustrates the camera system100before focusing. In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires two evaluation values (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the two optical systems, and determines the focus shift amounts. Next, it is confirmed whether a difference between the two evaluation values (left-right focus difference H1) is within the permissible range. In this example, since the left-right focus difference H1 is within the permissible range, as illustrated inFIG.14B, the driving mechanism261simultaneously moves the two optical systems so that the focus shift amounts of the two optical systems are within the permissible ranges.

Another example will be described. The basic mechanical configuration or the like are the same as that ofFIG.14according to Example 2 described above, and this example will discuss only the configuration different from that of Example 2, and will omit a description of the common configuration.

In order to simplify the operation, in this example, assume that focus shift amounts of the two optical systems are adjusted in advance by any method so that they are substantially the same. In that case, it is unnecessary to determine a second focus detection position and to acquire a corresponding evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction) that is the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system, and thus the operation flow of the camera system100becomes simple.

That is, before imaging, adjustment is performed through manual operation so that the left-right focus difference H1 between the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L is within the permissible range. This adjustment can perform subsequent imaging without worrying about the left-right focus difference H1 between the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L. Sending an operation signal from the outside to the driving mechanism262to move only the first optical system201R can adjust the focus difference H1 between the two optical systems201R and201L to be within the permissible range.

The driving mechanism262includes a stepping motor, gears, etc., and can be operated by an operation signal generated by a detector that detects the operation amount in a case where the user operates an operation ring of the camera, etc. Thereafter, an imaging operation is performed.

In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires only one evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the first optical system201R and the focus shift amount H2R. Based on the focus shift amount H2R, the driving mechanism261is driven so that the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system is within the permissible range. By driving the driving mechanism261, the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L are moved in the same direction by the same moving amount, and the two optical systems can become in in-focus states simultaneously.

Another example will be described. The basic mechanical configuration or the like is the same as that of Example 2 or 3 described above, so this example will discuss only the configuration different from that of Example 2 or 3, and will omit a description of the common configuration.

FIG.21Aillustrates another configuration that can previously adjusted the left-right focus difference H1 between the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L to be within the permissible range through manual operation. An adjusting mechanism264can move the first optical system201R in the optical axis direction. The adjusting mechanism264includes an unillustrated eccentric roller and the like, and is configured to be able to rotate the eccentric roller from the outer circumferential portion of the interchangeable lens200with a hexagon wrench or the like. By this operation, only the first optical system201R can be moved, and the focus difference H1 between the two optical systems201R and201L can be adjusted to be within the permissible range. Thereafter, an imaging operation is performed.

In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires only one evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the first optical system201R and the focus shift amount H2R. Based on the focus shift amount H2R, the driving mechanism261is driven so that the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system is within the permissible range (FIG.21B). By driving the driving mechanism261, the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L are moved in the same direction by the same moving amount, and the two optical systems can become in in-focus states simultaneously.

FIG.15is a schematic configuration diagram of the camera system100according to this example. This example will discuss only configurations different from those of Examples 1 to 4, and will omit a description of common configurations.

The interchangeable lens200includes a first driving mechanism263R and a second driving mechanism263L. The first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are attached to the lens top base300. That is, the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are disposed on the same member. The first driving mechanism263R moves the first optical system201R relative to the lens top base300in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111. The second driving mechanism263L moves the second optical system201L relative to the lens top base300in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111. Thereby, the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L can move relative to each other in the direction orthogonal to the imaging surface of the image sensor111.

In this example, each of the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L includes a lens unit in which an imaging optical system is integrated, and focusing can be performed by extending the entire optical system. This example performs focusing by extending the entire optical system, but may perform focusing by partially extending the optical system or by an inner focus type configuration.

Referring now toFIGS.16A and16B, a description will be given of a focusing operation procedure according to this example.FIGS.16A and16Billustrate the focusing operation procedure according to this example.

In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires two evaluation values (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the two optical systems, and determines the focus shift amounts. Next, it is determined whether the difference between the two evaluation values (left-right focus difference H1) is within the permissible range (predetermined range).

Next, as illustrated inFIG.16A, the second driving mechanism263L moves the second optical system201L so that the focus shift amount H2L is within the permissible range. Thereafter, as illustrated inFIG.16B, the first driving mechanism263R moves the first optical system201R so that the focus shift amount H2R is within the permissible range.

This example drives the first driving mechanism263R, after driving the second driving mechanism263L. However, this embodiment may drive the second driving mechanism263L after driving the first driving mechanism263R. Without any problems of power limitation, the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L may be driven simultaneously.

Another example will be described. In order to simplify the operation, assume that focus shift amounts of the two optical systems have been previously adjusted by any method so that they are approximately the same. In that case, it is unnecessary to determine the second focus detection position and to acquire the corresponding evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction) that is the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system, and the operation flow of the camera system100becomes simple.

The method for the user to adjust the focus difference H1 between the two optical systems201R and201L to be within the permissible range is as described above, and can be selected from various configurations. Thereafter, an imaging operation is performed.

In a case where the user presses the release button, the focus detector153acquires only one evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction) corresponding to the first optical system201R and the focus shift amount H2R. Based on the focus shift amount H2R, the driving mechanism263R is driven so that the focus shift amount H2R of the first optical system is within the permissible range. Thereafter, by driving the driving mechanism263L, the second optical system201L is moved in the same direction by the same moving amount. Without any problems of power limitation, the first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L may be simultaneously driven. Since the evaluation value (moving amount and moving direction), which is the focus shift amount H2L of the second optical system, is not used, the operation flow becomes simple.

FIG.17is a schematic configuration diagram of a camera system100according to this example. The basic configuration of the camera system100according to this example is the same as that of each of the above examples. This example will discuss only the configuration different from that of each of the above examples, and will omit a description of the common configuration.

The interchangeable lens200includes a position detection sensor (first detector)271R configured to detect the position of the first optical system201R and a position detection sensor (second detector)271L configured to detect the position of the second optical system201L. The interchangeable lens200further includes a guide portion (first guide portion)272R configured to guide the first optical system201R and a guide portion (second guide portion)272L configured to guide the first optical system201R.

The first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are mounted on the lens top base300so as to be point-symmetrical with respect to the center of the lens mount unit202(the center of the interchangeable lens200) in a case where the interchangeable lens200is viewed from the object side. The first driving mechanism263R and the second driving mechanism263L are disposed in opposite directions.

The position detection sensors271R and271L are also attached to the lens top base300. The attachment to the lens top base300can detect the position detection sensors271R and271L with high accuracy. The guide portions272R and272L are also attached to the lens top base300, respectively, and guide the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L.

FIG.18illustrates the interchangeable lens200according to this example viewed from the lens mount unit202side. This example will discuss only configurations different from those of Examples 1 to 6, and will omit a description of common configurations.

InFIG.18, a contact281with the camera body110is disposed below the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L, and allows the camera body110and the interchangeable lens200to electrically communicate with each other. In this example, signals are exchanged between the camera body110and the interchangeable lens200through the contact281.

FIG.19illustrates the interchangeable lens200viewed from the object side.FIG.19omits unnecessary portions so that the location of the driving mechanism261can be viewed. Since a flexible printed circuit (FPC) board282is connected to the contact281, the contact281and the FPC board282are disposed substantially in the same phase. In order to avoid electrical interference, the driving mechanism261and the contact281are disposed at positions different in phase by 180 degrees with respect to the center of the optical axis. The 180-degree difference includes not only a strict 180-degree difference, but also a substantial 180-degree difference (approximate 180-degree difference).

FIG.20is a top view of the interchangeable lens200viewed from the object side by adding the first optical system201R and the second optical system201L to the configuration ofFIG.19. The driving mechanism261is disposed outside the projection surface areas of the two optical systems. Disposing the driving mechanism261avoiding the space where the two optical systems are disposed, the space can be effectively utilized.

This embodiment can provide a control apparatus that can properly perform focusing of a plurality of optical systems.

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Applications Nos. 2022-157404, filed on September 30, 2022, and 2023-090520, filed on May 31, 2023, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.