Abstract:
A relay unit connected between a remote control unit and an optical device having a focus lens comprises a first switching signal input unit for switching control of the focus lens between automatic focal point detection focusing and control of the focus lens by remote commands from the remote control unit. This enables remote control of a lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with one having automatic focus capabilities.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates to relay units and more specifically to relay units for optical devices for use in television cameras, video cameras, television lens, video lens, or the like, which perform automatic focal point detection focus control (hereafter referred to as “AF control”). 
   2. Description of the Related Art 
   In recent years, automatic focal point detection control (AF) control has become indispensable to picture-taking devices such as consumer-grade video cameras or the like. The AF control method extracts and evaluates signals corresponding to the sharpness of the subject from picture signals before automatic focal point detection is performed. 
   An example of operations of such an AF control system is described with reference to  FIG. 6 . In  FIG. 6 , reference numeral  600  denotes a camera with a non-detachable lens unit,  102  denotes evaluation value generating means for extracting a sharpness evaluation value from the picture signals output from later-described process means  202 , and  103  denotes AF driving control means for generating motor control signals such that the sharpness evaluation value generated by the evaluation value generating means  102  is maximized. Reference numeral  105  denotes a motor operated under the control of the AF driving control means  103 , and  106  denotes a focus lens which is driven along the optical axis by the motor  105 . Reference numeral  201  denotes a CCD,  202  denotes process means for converting the output signals of the CCD into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and  203  denotes recording/reproducing means for recording the picture signals, which are the output of the process means  202 , on a recording medium, and reproducing the pictures recorded therein. 
   In the above-described configuration, the optical flux which has passed through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201  for photoelectric conversion by the CCD. A held sample is then input to the process means  202 , where input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the evaluation value generating means  102  and the recording/reproducing means  203 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals output to the evaluation value generating means  102 , the sharpness evaluation values relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output to the AF driving control means  103 . At the AF driving control means  103 , motor control signals are generated which move the focus lens  106  to a position wherein the sharpness evaluation value is maximum, sequentially comparing the sharpness evaluation value in increments of vertical synchronization cycles while driving the motor  105 , so that the focus lens  106  is moved to the focal point. The recording/reproducing means  203  records the output of the process means  202  in the recording medium, and also reproduce the pictures recorded therein. 
   An example of such AF driving will be described. The movement direction of the focus lens  106  is determined by moving the focus lens  106  by a small amount. That is, the focal point may either be at the far side of the near side of the current position of the focus lens  106  or the near side of the focus lens. By slightly moving the focus lens  106 , and considering the change in the sharpness evaluation value, such movement direction is determined. Subsequently, the focus lens  106  is moved at a specific speed in order to detect the peak value of the sharpness evaluation value, following the results of determining the direction for driving. This is referred to as “hill-climbing determination”. After exceeding the peak value, the direction of moving the focus lens  106  is reversed, and the focus lens  106  is guided in increments of minute amounts of movement so that the sharpness evaluation value is maximized. This is referred to as “peak determination”. Following the peak determination, the sharpness evaluation value is read and compared with the value immediately following the peak determination, and the value has changed, the AF operations are reactivated. 
   The video AF actions of a camera system having such an exchangeable lens configuration is described in detail in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 9-065184. 
   Also, “remote systems” are known for monitoring and/or taking pictures of ceremonies or other solemn services or gatherings, etc., by using television cameras, video cameras, television lenses, video lenses, and so forth. Such remote systems are not equipped with AF control, and thus require an operator to operate switches and dials to perform functions such as zooming, iris control, focus, and so forth. 
   A remote system uses a 12-pin electric interface between the remote control unit and the camera. The electric interface has pins assigned to zoom, iris, and focus command signals, control mode signals (switching between speed control and position control), electric power source, ground, and so forth. In may such remote systems, all 12 pins are in use, i.e., there are no more pins available. 
   An example of operations of this remote system is described with reference to  FIG. 7 . The components in  FIG. 7  denoted by the reference numerals  105 ,  106 ,  201 ,  202 , and  203 , in  FIG. 6 , have already been described above, and accordingly description thereof will be omitted here. 
   In  FIG. 7 , reference numeral  100  denotes an exchangeable lens unit,  200  denotes a camera unit, and  400  denotes a remote control unit for supplying to the lens unit  100 : command signals for controlling an unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106 ; and switching signals for switching between either speed control or positional control to control the unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106 . Reference numeral  500  denotes a remote control cable connecting the lens unit  100  and the remote control unit  400 . 
   In the lens unit  100 , reference numeral  107  denotes a remote control input terminal for inputting to the lens unit  100  the command signals and switching signals from the remote control unit  400 ,  109  denotes MF driving control means for generating motor control signals for driving a motor  105  from manual focus command signals (hereafter referred to as “MF command signals”) input from the remote control unit  400 , and  211  denotes S/P (Speed/Positional) switching signal determining means for outputting S/P switching command signals to the MF driving control means to control the focus lens  106  with either speed control or positional control, based on S/P switching signals output from S/P switching signal input means  402 . 
   In the remote control unit  400 , reference numeral  401  denotes MF command signal generating means comprising switches and dials and the like for generating MF command signals,  402  denotes S/P switching signal input means to switch between control of the focus lens  106  with either speed control or positional control, and  403  denotes a remote control output terminal for outputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  to the lens unit  100 . 
   In the above-described configuration, operating the MF command signal generating means  401  causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control input terminal  107 . Also, S/P switching signals for switching between speed or positional control of focus lens  106  are output at the S/P switching signal input means  702 , and input to the S/P switching signal determining means  211  via the remote control output terminal  403 , the remote control cable  500 , and the remote control input terminal  107 . At the S/P switching signal determining means  211 , determination is made regarding whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control, and the determination results are output to the MF driving control means  109  as S/P switching command signals. At the MF driving control means  109 , in the event that the S/P switching command signals are for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control, the MF command signals are handled as speed control commands signals, motor control signals are generated for driving the motor  105  at a speed commanded by the MF command signals, and the motor  105  is driven so as to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals are for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control, the MF command signals are handled as positional control commands signals, motor control signals are generated for driving the motor  105  to the position commanded by the MF command signals, and the motor  105  is driven so as to move the focus lens  106 . 
   However, with the above-described conventional example, in the event that the remote system has AF control, simply replacing the lens unit  100  with a lens unit capable of handling AF control does not provide the remote control unit  400  (which also enables remote operations of the lens unit  100 ) with switching means to determine whether the focus lens  106  is to be driven by AF control or MF control. 
   Also, with the remote system, there are no pins available in the electric interface between the remote control unit  400  and the lens unit  100 , so pins cannot be assigned to switching signals to drive the focus lens  106  either by AF control or by MF control from the remote control unit  400 . 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention has been made in light of the above-described problems, and accordingly, it is a first object of the present invention to provide a remote system with AF control. This AF control enables switching between AF or MF control of the focus lens  106 . the AF control unit is provided on the side of the remote control unit  400 , which enables remote operations of the lens unit  100  simply by replacing the lens unit  100  with an AF control device. This allows switching between AF or MF of the focus lens  106  despite the non-availability of pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device. 
   According to a first aspect of the present invention, a relay unit connected between a remote control unit and an optical device having a focus lens is provided. The relay control unit comprises first switching signal input means for switching control of the focus lens between either an automatic focal point detection control or remote control from the remote control unit. 
   According to this arrangement, a remote system with AF control is provided which has a switching means for switching between AF control and MF control of the focal lens. 
   According to another aspect of the present invention, an optical device comprises: focal point detection focus control means for controlling a focus lens by automatic focal point detection focus control; and switching signal input means for switching between whether to control the focus lens by automatic focal point detection focus control or to control the focus lens by remote command control from remote command control means disposed outside of the optical device. 
   According to another aspect, a relay unit locatable between a remote control unit and an optical device having a focus lens is provided. The relay unit includes a first switching signal input means for switching control of said focus lens between an automatic focal point detection focus control means and a remote control unit. The automatic focal point detection focus control means performs automatic focal point detection focusing and the remote control unit provides remote commands to control the focus lens. 
   According to another aspect, a relay unit having an input terminal for receiving a manual focus command signal and a speed/position switching signal is provided. These signals may emanate from a remote control unit coupled to the relay unit, for example. The relay unit also has an output terminal for providing said manual focus command signal and said speed/position switching signal to a focus lens of an optical device. Another feature of the relay unit is that it has a switching signal input means for controlling the focus lens by switching between automatic focal point detection control and manual focus control of the focus lens. 
   This enables an arrangement wherein switching means for switching between whether to drive the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to a lens unit of a remote system with AF control even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 3  is a multiplex signal diagram of signals from a relay unit. 
       FIG. 4  is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 5  is a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 6  is a first block diagram of a conventional example. 
       FIG. 7  is a second block diagram of a conventional example. 
       FIG. 8  is a block diagram of a fifth embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 9  is a switching signal diagram of signals from the relay unit. 
       FIG. 10  is a block diagram of a sixth embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 11  is a block diagram of a seventh embodiment of the present invention. 
       FIG. 12  is a block diagram illustrating eighth and ninth embodiments of the present invention. 
       FIG. 13  is a block diagram of a conventional example. 
   

   DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   A description will now be made of embodiments of the present invention. 
   First Embodiment 
   A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described.  FIG. 1  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the first embodiment of the present invention has been applied. 
   In  FIG. 1 , reference numeral  100  denotes an exchangeable lens unit,  200  denotes a camera unit,  300  denotes a picture coaxial cable. The reference numeral  400  denotes a remote control unit for supplying the lens unit  100  with control signals for controlling a zoom lens unit and iris unit (not shown), and focus lens  106  within the lens unit  100 . The remote control unit  400  also supplies switching signals for switching between control of the zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106  between speed control and positional control. 
   The reference numeral  500  denotes a remote control cable for connecting the remote control unit  400  with a relay unit  700 , which in turn is situated between the remote control unit  400  and the lens unit  100  and multiplexes switching signals for switching control of the focus lens  106  between AF control or MF control upon S/P switching signals which are the output from S/P switching signal input means  402 , and displays whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or MF control, and  800  denotes a relay unit cable for connecting the relay unit  700  and the lens unit  100 . 
   In the lens unit  100 , reference numeral  101  denotes a picture input terminal for inputting picture signals via a picture coaxial cable  300 ,  102  denotes evaluation value generating means for extracting a sharpness evaluation value from the picture signals input from the picture input terminal  101 , and  103  denotes AF driving control means for generating motor control signals such that the sharpness evaluation value generated by the evaluation value generating means  102  is maximized. Reference numeral  104  denotes AF/MF switching means controlled by switching signal determining means  108 , for switching between whether to drive the later-described motor  105  with motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103  or with motor control signals from the MF driving control means  109 ,  105  denotes a motor operated under the control of signals from the AF driving control means  103  or the later-described MF driving control means  109 , and  106  denotes a focus lens which moves along the optical axis by being driven by the motor  105 . 
   Reference numeral  107  denotes a remote control input terminal for inputting MF command signals and multiplex signals from the relay unit  700  to the lens unit  100 ,  108  denotes switching signal determining means for determining whether multiplex signals from later-described AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are AF control or MF control, and in the event of MF control whether speed control or positional control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed, outputting S/P switching command signals commanding later-described MF driving control means whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or positional control and also switching the AF/MF switching means  104  according to whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with speed control or positional control. Reference numeral  109  denotes MF driving control means for generating motor control signals for driving the motor  105  with MF control signals to control the focus lens  106  with one or the other of speed control or positional control, based on S/P switching command signals from the switching signal determining means  108 . 
   In the camera  200 , reference numeral  201  denotes a CCD,  202  denotes process means for converting the output signals of the CCD into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and  203  denotes recording/reproducing means for recording the picture signals, which are the output of the process means  202 , on a recording medium, and reproducing the pictures recorded therein. Reference numeral  204  denotes output switching means for selecting one of the process means  202  and recording/reproducing means  203  for output of the picture signals, and  205  denotes a picture output terminal for outputting picture signals which are the output of the output switching means. 
   In the remote control unit  400 , reference numeral  401  denotes MF command signal generating means configured of switches and dials for generating MF command signals,  402  denotes S/P switching signal input means for switching between whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with speed control or positional control when under MF control, and  403  denotes a remote control output terminal for outputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  to the relay unit  700 . 
   In the relay unit  700 , reference numeral  701  denotes AF/MF switching signal input means for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control,  702  denotes AF/MF setting state display means for displaying which setting the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to, i.e., whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control,  703  denotes a relay unit input terminal for inputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  into the relay unit  700 , and  704  denotes a relay unit output terminal for outputting the MF command signals and multiplex signals from the relay unit  700  to the lens unit  100 . 
   Now, the manner in which the above-described configuration acts in the event of the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  being set so that the focus lens  106  is controlled by AF control in a case wherein the MF command signal generating means  401  have not been operated, will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the output switching means  204  and recording/reproducing means  203 . In a recording state, the output switching means  204  output the output for the process means  202  to the picture output terminal  205 , and the recording/reproducing means  203  record the output of the process means  202  to the recording medium. In a reproducing state, the recording/reproducing means  203  reproduce the picture signals recorded in the recording medium, and upon the picture signals being reproduced in a stable manner, the output switching means  204  output the picture signals of the recording/reproducing means  203  to the picture output terminal  205 . 
   Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . 
   On the other hand, the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  of the relay unit  700  is set to drive the focus lens  106  with AF control, so AF control is displayed on the AF/MF setting state display means  702 , and regardless of the state of the S/P switching signal input means  402  a multiplex signal Vref 3 , which differs from Vref 1  or Vref 2  is output from the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  to the lens unit  100  and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . The switching signal determining means  108  determine the multiplex signals Vref 3 , and accordingly switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the A side so as to control the focus lens  106  with AF control. Accordingly, the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , and thus the focus lens  106  is moved. 
   Next, description will be made regarding actions in a case wherein, in the above state, the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated. In the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled by AF control, the switching signal determining means  108  determine that the MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  have changed, and switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the B side. At the same time, at the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event the multiplex signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  prior to the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  being switched to the AF control via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , AF/MF switching signal input means  701 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 , is Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , control of the focus lens  106  is performed with speed control, and in the event that the multiplex signal is Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , S/P switching command signals are output to the MF driving control means  109  based on information stored beforehand regarding signals which indicate that control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed with positional control. In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   Finally, description will be made regarding the actions in a case wherein the focus lens  106  has been set to being driven by MF control by the AF/MF switching signal input means  701 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output from the MF command signal generating means  401 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  and the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . 
   On the other hand, at the S/P switching signal input means  402 , S/P switching signals for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control are input to the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and relay unit input terminal  703 . The AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so the S/P switching signals Vref 1  and Vref 2  from the S/P switching signal input means  402  are output as a multiplexed signal, and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Also, since the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, the AF/MF setting state display means  702  displays MF control. At the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with speed control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . Also at the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with positional control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   Modifications of First Embodiment 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while performing AF control of the focus lens  106 , MF control of the focus lens  106  is performed, an arrangement may also be made wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while performing AF control of the focus lens  106 , AF control of the focus lens  106  is performed. 
   Also, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while controlling the focus lens  106  with AF control, whether to control the focus lens  106  control to speed control or position control is set according to the state of the S/P switching signal prior to the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  being switched to AF control, an arrangement may be made wherein in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while controlling the focus lens  106  with AF control, whether to control the focus lens  106  control to speed control or position control is set to a fixed option, i.e., only one of speed control or position control. 
   Further, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to AF control or MF control, an arrangement may be made wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or MF control. 
   Moreover, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally-formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   Moreover, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made with regard to an arraignment wherein the relay unit cable  800  is connected to the remote control input terminal  107  of the lens unit  100 , the present invention is not restricted to this configuration, and the relay unit cable  800  may be connected to the remote control input terminal of the camera unit  200 . Note that this arrangement wherein relay unit cable  800  is connected to the remote control input terminal of the camera unit  200  can also be applied to the following second through ninth embodiments, as well. 
   According to such a configuration, the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Second Embodiment 
   Of the first embodiment, the configuration wherein S/P switching signals can be input to the lens unit even in the event that the control of the focus lens is AF control due to the momentary action of the AF/MF switching signal input means, whereby MF control is given priority while the MF command signal generating means are operating under AF control of the focus lens and AF control is performed following operation of the MF command signal generating means, with speed control or position control to be performed for the focus lens being switchable at that time, will be described as the second embodiment of the optical device. 
   The second embodiment of the present invention will now be described.  FIG. 2  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the second embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  109 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 ,  500 ,  700 ,  703 ,  704 , and  800  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Reference numeral  705  denotes AF/MF switching MOM signal input means which switch between whether to perform control of the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control by momentary action, and  706  denotes AF/MF state display means for displaying whether the control of the focus lens  106  is being performed with AF control or with MF control. 
   The S/P switching signal state and focus lens control state output from the S/P switching signal input means  402  indicated by the multiplex signal output from the relay unit  700  in the above-described configuration will be described with reference to  FIG. 3 . In this drawing, the solid line represents the multiplex signal output from the relay unit  700 , the dotted line represents the voltage level of the switching signal, the one-dash broken lines represent the S/P switching signal state within the multiplex signal, and the two-dash broken lines represent the focus lens control state within the multiplex signal. 
   Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , and Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , are output as the output signals of the S/P switching signal input means  402 . Here, Vref 1  is a signal indicating that the control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed with speed control, and Vref 2  is a signal indicating that the control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed with positional control. Also, each time the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  go to Vref 3  with momentary action, the AF/MF switching means  104  switch according to determination and instruction of the switching signal determining means  108 , thereby alternating between AF control and MF control. 
   First, the S/P switching signal state sectioned off by the one-dash broken lines will be described. In the regions A and C, speed control is selected for the control of the focus lens  106  since the multiplex signal is Vref 1 , and in the region B, positional control is selected for the control of the focus lens  106  since the multiplex signal is Vref 2 . 
   Next, the focus lens control state sectioned off by the two-dash broken line will be described. The regions a and c are where the focus lens  106  is being controlled under MF control, and the region b is where the focus lens  106  is being controlled under AF control. 
   In the state that the focus lens  106  is being controlled under MF control, MF control is executed by MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  in the S/P switching signal state. However, even in the state that the focus lens  106  is being controlled under AF control, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated, MF control is executed by MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  in the S/P switching signal state. 
   Now, the actions of the focus lens  106  being driven under AF control by operating the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  in a case wherein the MF command signal generating means  401  is not operated will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the output switching means  204  and recording/reproducing means  203 . In the recording state, the output switching means  204  output the output for the process means  202  to the picture output terminal  205 , and the recording/reproducing means  203  record the output of the process means  202  to the recording medium. In the reproducing state, the recording/reproducing means  203  reproduce the picture signals recorded in the recording medium, and upon the picture signals being reproduced in a stable manner, the output switching means  204  output the picture signals of the recording/reproducing means  203  to the picture output terminal  205 . 
   Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . The AF/MF switching means  104  are set to the A side, so the motor control signals output from the AF driving control means  103  drive the motor  105  via the AF/MF switching means  104 , thereby moving the focus lens  106 . In this case, control of the focus lens  106  is set to be performed under AF control, so the AF/MF state display means  706  make a display indicating AF control. 
   Next, description will be made regarding actions in a case wherein, in the above state, the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated. In the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled by AF control, the switching signal determining means  108  determine that the MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  have changed, and switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the B side. At the same time, at the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event the multiplex signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 , is Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , control of the focus lens  106  is performed with speed control, and in the event that the multiplex signal is Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , S/P switching command signals are output to the MF driving control means  109  whereby control of the focus lens  106  is performed with positional control. In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . In this case, control of the focus lens  106  is set to MF control, so the AF/MF state display means  706  means make a display indicating MF control. 
   Finally, description will be made regarding the actions in a case wherein the focus lens  106  has been set to being driven by MF control by the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output from the MF command signals generating means  401 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  and the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . 
   On the other hand, at the S/P switching signal input means  402 , S/P switching signals for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control are input to the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and relay unit input terminal  703 . At the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705 , the input S/P switching signals Vref 1  and Vref 2  are output as a multiplexed signal, and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . At the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with speed control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . Also at the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with positional control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . In this case, control of the focus lens  106  is set to MF control by the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705 , so the AF/MF state display means  706  means make a display indicating MF control. 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while performing AF control of the focus lens  106 , MF control of the focus lens is performed, an arrangement may also be made wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while performing AF control of the focus lens  106 , AF control of the focus lens is performed. 
   Also, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein, in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while controlling the focus lens  106  with AF control, whether to control the focus lens  106  control to speed control or position control is set according to the state of the S/P switching signal output from the S/P switching signal input means  402 , an arrangement may be made wherein in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while controlling the focus lens  106  with AF control, whether to control the focus lens  106  control to speed control or position control is set to a fixed option, i.e., only one of speed control or position control. 
   Further, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or MF control, an arrangement may be made wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  have set the control of the focus lens  106  to AF control or to MF control. 
   Moreover, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally-formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the above-described first embodiment can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Third Embodiment 
   With the first embodiment, in the event that the MF command signal generating means are operated while control of the focus lens is being performed under AF control, MF control is performed based on S/P command signals recorded beforehand prior to the AF/MF switching signal input means being switched to AF control. A configuration comprising S/P switching setting means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with speed control or positional control in the event that the MF command signal generating means are operated while the focus lens of the lens unit is being controlled with AF control will be described as the third embodiment of the optical device. 
   The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described.  FIG. 4  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the third embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  109 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 ,  500 ,  700  through  704 , and  800  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Reference numeral  110  denotes S/P switching setting means for switching between whether to perform MF control of the focus lens with speed control or positional control in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control. 
   In the above-described configuration, the actions in the event that the settings of the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, and the MF command signal generating means  401  are not operated, and the actions in the event that the settings are for the focus lens  106  to be controlled with MF control by the AF/MF switching signal input means  701 , are the same as those in the first embodiment, so description thereof will be omitted. Rather, the actions in a case wherein the settings of the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, and the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated, will be described. 
   In the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, the switching signal determining means  108  determines that the MF command signal from the MF command signal generating means  401  has changed, and the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side. At the same time, in the event that the S/P switching setting signal input from the S/P switching setting means  110  is Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2 , control of the focus lens  106  is performed with speed control, and in the event that the S/P switching setting signal input from the S/P switching setting means  110  is Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1 , an S/P switching command signals for performing control of the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . At the MF driving control means  109 , in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the above-described embodiments can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Fourth Embodiment 
   In the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  disposed in the remote control unit  400  has a mechanical effective rotational angle, and is a dial for generating MF positional command signals, the movable range of the MF command signal generating means  401  is limited. In this case, the rotational angle of the dial corresponds to the position of the focus lens  106  on a one-to-one basis. In the event of performing MF control from the MF command signal generating means  401  while the focus lens  106  is being controlled by AF, the position of the focus lens  106  before MF control and the position following MF control will not match. Accordingly, the MF command signal generating means  401  which perform MF control while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control is preferably MF speed command signals generating means. This holds the true for the above-described first through third embodiments and the following fifth through ninth embodiments as well. While the focus lens  106  is controlled with MF control in the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, a configuration wherein the relay unit  700  is provided with AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  for generating MF speed command signals which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control will be described as the fourth embodiment of the optical device. 
   The fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described.  FIG. 5  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the fourth embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  109 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 ,  500 ,  700  through  704 , and  800  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Reference numeral  707  denotes AF-MF speed command signal generating means disposed within the relay unit  700  for generating AF-MF speed command signals, for controlling the speed of the focus lens  106 , which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control. 
   In the above-described configuration, the actions under the settings that the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, in the event that the AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  are not operated, will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the output switching means  204  and recording/reproducing means  203 . In the recording state, the output switching means  204  output the output for the process means  202  to the picture output terminal  205 , and the recording/reproducing means  203  record the output of the process means  202  to the recording medium. In the reproducing state, the recording/reproducing means  203  reproduce the picture signals recorded in the recording medium, and upon the picture signals being reproduced in a stable manner, the output switching means  204  output the picture signals of the recording/reproducing means  203  to the picture output terminal  205 . 
   Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . 
   On the other hand, the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  of the relay unit  700  are set so as to drive the focus lens  106  with AF control, so AF control is displayed on the AF/MF setting state display means  702 , and the multiplex switching signal Vref 3  which is different from Vref 1  and Vref 2  is output to the lens unit  100  from the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  regardless of the state of the S/P switching signal input means  402 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . At the switching signal determining means  108 , the input multiplexed signals are Vref 3 , so the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the A side so as to control the focus lens  106  with AF control. Thus, the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , thereby moving the focus lens  106 . 
   Next, description will be made regarding actions in a case wherein, in the above state, the AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  are operated. Operating the AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  of the relay unit  700 , configured of switches and the like, causes AF-MF command signals proportionate to the operations of the AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  to be output, and input as multiplex command signals from the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  to the switching signal determining means  108  and the MF driving control means  109  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . In the event that the AF-MF speed command signal generating means  707  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, the switching signal determining means  108  determines that the multiplex command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  have changed, and the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side. At the same time, at the switching signal determining means  108 , the S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . The S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, so the MF driving control means  109  handle the multiplex command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   Finally, description will be made regarding the actions in a case wherein the focus lens  106  has been set to being driven by MF control by the AF/MF switching signal input means  701 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the input to the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and relay unit input terminal  703 . The AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set so as to drive the focus lens  106  with MF control, so MF command signals are output as multiplex command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  and MF driving control means  109  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . 
   On the other hand, at the S/P switching signal input means  402 , S/P switching signals for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control are input to the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and relay unit input terminal  703 . At the AF/MF switching signal input means  701 , control of the focus lens  106  is set to MF control, so the input S/P switching signals Vref 1  and Vref 2  are output from the S/P switching signal input means  402  as a multiplexed signal, and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Also, the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so MF control is displayed at the AF/MF setting state display means  702 . At the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 1  which is different to Vref 2  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with speed control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . Also at the switching signal determining means  108 , in the event that the input multiplexed signals are Vref 2  which is different to Vref 1  and Vref 3 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with positional control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein MF speed command signals, which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, control the focus lens  106  with speed control, an arrangement may be made wherein MF speed command signals which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, control the focus lens  106  with positional control. 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein MF speed command signals, which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, control the focus lens  106  with speed control, an arrangement may be made wherein setting means having the functions equivalent to the S/P switching setting means described in the third embodiment are disposed within the lens unit  100 , so that MF speed command signals which are valid only in the event that the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, control the focus lens  106  with either speed control or positional control. 
   Also, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to AF control or MF control, an arrangement may be made wherein the AF/MF setting state display means  702  display whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or MF control. 
   Further, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally-formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the above-described embodiments can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Fifth Embodiment 
   A fifth embodiment of the present invention will now be described.  FIG. 8  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the fifth embodiment of the present invention has been applied. 
   In  FIG. 8 , reference numeral  100  denotes an exchangeable lens unit,  200  denotes a camera unit,  300  denotes a picture coaxial cable,  400  denotes a remote control unit for supplying the lens unit  100  with control signals for controlling an unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106  within the lens unit  100 , and with switching signals for switching between whether to control the unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control,  500  denotes a remote control cable for connecting the remote control unit  400  with a later-described relay unit  700 , which in turn is situated between the remote control unit  400  and the lens unit  100  and multiplexes switching signals regarding whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control upon MF command signals which are the output from the MF command signal generating means  401 , and displays whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or MF control, and  800  denotes a relay unit capable for connecting the relay unit  700  and the lens unit  100 . 
   In the lens unit  100 , reference numeral  101  denotes a picture input terminal for inputting picture signals via a picture coaxial cable  300 ,  102  denotes evaluation value generating means for extracting a sharpness evaluation value from the picture signals output from process means  202 , and  103  denotes AF driving control means for generating motor control signals such that the sharpness evaluation value generated by the evaluation value generating means  102  is maximized. Reference numeral  104  denotes AF/MF switching means controlled by later-described switching signal determining means  108 , for switching between whether to drive the focus lens  106  with motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103  or with motor control signals from the later-described MF driving control means  109 ,  105  denotes a motor operated with motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103  or the later-described MF driving control means  109 , and  106  denotes a focus lens which moves along the optical axis by being driven by the motor  105 . Reference numeral  107  denotes a remote control input terminal for inputting S/P switching signals and multiplex signals from the relay unit  700  to the lens unit  100 ,  108  denotes switching signal determining means for determining whether multiplex signals from later-described AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are AF control or MF control, and in the event of MF control whether speed control or positional control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed, outputting S/P switching command signals commanding whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or positional control to the MF driving control means  109  and also switching the AF/MF switching means according to whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with AF control or MF control. Reference numeral  109  denotes MF driving control means for generating motor control signals for driving the motor  105  with MF control signals to control the focus lens  106  with one or the other of speed control and positional control, based on S/P switching command signals from the switching signal determining means  108 . 
   In the camera  200 , reference numeral  204  denotes output switching means for selecting one of the process means  202  and recording/reproducing means  203  for output of the picture signals, and  205  denotes a picture output terminal for outputting picture signals which are the output of the output switching means  204 . 
   In the remote control unit  400 , reference numeral  401  denotes MF command signal generating means configured of switches and dials for generating MF command signals,  402  denotes S/P switching signal input means for switching between whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with speed control or positional control, and  403  denotes a remote control output terminal for outputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  to the relay unit  700 . 
   In the relay unit  700 , reference numeral  701  denotes AF/MF switching signal input means for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control,  702  denotes AF/MF setting state display means for displaying which setting the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to, i.e., whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control,  703  denotes a relay unit input terminal for inputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  into the relay unit  700 , and  704  denotes a relay unit output terminal for outputting the multiplex signals and S/P switching signals from the relay unit  700  to the lens unit  100 . 
   Now, the manner in which the above-described configuration acts in the event of the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  being set so that the control signal for driving the focus lens  106  is driven by the control signal from the AF driving control means  103 , will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the evaluation value generating means  102  and recording/reproducing means  203 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input thereto, relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . 
   On the other hand, the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  of the relay unit  700  are set to drive the focus lens  106  with control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , so level signals outside of the output range of the MF command signal generating means  401  are output from the AF/MF switching signal input means  701 . For example, in the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control in a MF command signal output range of the MF command signal generating means  401  of +2.5 V to +7.5 V, speed control is performed with +5.0 V serving as a stop signal and the focus lens  106  is subjected to speed control toward the infinity side in the event that the signal is between +5.0 V to +7.5 V and toward the close-up side in the event that the signal is between +5.0 V to +2.5 V. Further, the speed is greater the farther the value is from +5.0 V, so the focus lens  106  is driven at maximum speed in the event that the value is +7.5 V or +2.5 V. 
   Now, with the above-described arrangement, the signal whereby the AF/MF switching signal input means  701  sets the control signals from the AF driving control means  103  as the control signals for driving the focus lens  106  is 0 V. The AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, so AF control is displayed on the AF/MF setting state display means  702 . The level signals outside of the output range of the MF command signal generating means  401  are input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 , whereby the switching signal determining means  108  determine that the signals are level signals outside of the output range of the MF command signal generating means  401 , and accordingly switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the A side. Accordingly, the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , and thus the focus lens  106  is moved. 
   Next, description will be made regarding actions in a case wherein the S/P switching signal input means  402  are set to drive the focus lens  106  with motor control signals from the MF driving control means  109 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the input means  701  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and relay unit input terminal  703 . The AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to drive the focus lens  106  with motor control signals from the MF driving control means  109 , so the MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  are output as multiplex command signals, and input to the switching signal determining means  108  and MF driving control means  109  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . The AF/MF switching signal input means  701  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so MF control is displayed on the AF/MF setting state display means  702 . Also, in the event that MF control is being performed to control the focus lens, S/P switching signals for setting whether to control the focus lens with speed control or with positional control are output from the S/P switching signal input means  402 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Here, let us say that the S/P switching signal output is Vref 1  in the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control, and Vref 2  in the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control. The switching signal determining means  108  determine that the input multiplex signals are level signals within the output range of the MF command signal generating means  401 , switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the B side, and in the event that the input S/P switching signal Vref 2  determines that control of the focus lens  106  is to be made with positional control, and outputs a S/P switching command signal of positional control of the focus lens  106  to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the above-described embodiments can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Sixth Embodiment 
   An optical device, having a configuration wherein the AF/MF switching signal input means of the fifth embodiment performs momentary actions, whereby MF command signals are input to the lens unit even in the event of controlling the focus lens with AF control, with MF control being given priority in the event that the MF command signal generating means are operated while controlling the focus lens under AF control, AF control then being performed at the point that the operations of the MF command signal generating means end, will be described as a sixth embodiment. 
   The sixth embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.  FIG. 10  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the sixth embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  109 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 ,  500 ,  700 ,  703 ,  704 , and  800  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Reference numeral  705  denotes AF/MF switching MOM signal input means which switch between whether to perform control of the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control by momentary action, and  706  denotes AF/MF state display means for displaying whether the control of the focus lens  106  is being performed with AF control or with MF control. 
   With the above configuration, an example of the MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  being speed control will be described with reference to  FIG. 9 , for each control state of the focus lens  106 , i.e., AF control and MF control. In this drawing, the solid line represents the multiplex signal output from the relay unit  700 , the dotted line represents the voltage level of the multiplex signal, the one-dash broken lines represent the state of the MF command signals output from the MF command signal generating means  401  within the remote control unit  400 , and the two-dash broken lines represent the AF action state under operations of the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means within the relay unit  700 . 
   In the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control in a MF command signal output range of the MF command signal generating means  401  of +2.5 V to +7.5 V, speed control is performed with +5.0 V serving as a stop signal and the focus lens  106  is subjected to speed control toward the infinity side in the event that the signal is between +5.0 V to +7.5 V and toward the close-up side in the event that the signal is between +5.0 V to +2.5 V. The speed is greater the farther the value is from +5.0 V, so the focus lens  106  is driven at maximum speed in the event that the value is +7.5 V or +2.5 V. Each time the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  go to 0 V in the momentary action, the AF/MF switching means  104  switch under determination made by the switching signal determining means  108 , and AF control and MF control is alternately repeated. 
   First, the MF command signal state sectioned off by the single-dash broken line will be described. The symbols A, C, and E represent a state wherein the focus lens  106  is stopped due to the remote control output signal being +5.0 V, B represents a state wherein the focus lens  106  is driven toward the infinity side at full speed due to the remote control output signal being +7.5 V, and D represents a state wherein the focus lens  106  is driven toward the close-up side at intermediate speed due to the remote control output signal being +3.75 V. 
   Next, the AF action state sectioned off by the two-dash broken line will be described. The regions a and c are where AF is off, and the region b is where AF is on. 
   Finally, the control state of the focus lens  106  will be described. In the regions a and c, AF is off so the focus lens  106  is in the MF control state, in the region portion D in the region b the focus lens  106  is in the MF control state because the MF command signal generating means  401  has been operated and MF command signals are being output, and in portions other than the region portion D in the region b the focus lens  106  is in the AF control state. 
   Now, the actions in the event that the focus lens  106  is set to be driven with AF control by the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  being operated, will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the evaluation value generating means  102  and recording/reproducing means  203 . Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . The AF/MF switching means  104  are set to the A side, so the motor control signals output from the AF driving control means  103  drive the motor  105  via the AF/MF switching means  104 , thereby moving the focus lens  106 . In this case, control of the focus lens  106  is set to be performed under AF control by the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  being operated, so the AF/MF state display means  706  make a display indicating AF control. 
   Next, a case wherein the focus lens  106  is set to be driven with MF control by the AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  will be described. Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , and AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705 . The AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  is set such that the control signals for driving the focus lens  106  are the control signals from the MF driving control means  109 , so the MF command signals from the MF command signal generating means  401  are output as multiplex command signals, and input to the switching signal determining means  108  and MF driving control means  109  via the relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . The AF/MF switching MOM signal input means  705  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so MF control is displayed on the AF/MF switching state display means  706 . Also, in the event that MF control is being performed to control the focus lens, S/P switching signals for setting whether to control the focus lens with speed control or with positional control are output from the S/P switching signal input means  402 , and input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , relay unit input terminal  703 , relay unit output terminal  704 , relay unit cable  800 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Here, let us say that the S/P switching signal output is Vref 1  in the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control, and Vref 2  in the event of controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control. The switching signal determining means  108  determine that the input multiplex signals are level signals within the output range of the MF command signal generating means  401 , switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the B side, and in the event that the input S/P switching signal Vref 2  determines that control of the focus lens  106  is to be made with positional control, and outputs a S/P switching command signal of positional control of the focus lens  106  to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 . The AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side, so the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the MF driving control means  109 , whereby the focus lens  106  is moved. 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the above-described embodiments can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit which enables remote operations of the lens unit simply by replacing the lens unit with an article capable of handing AF control, thereby enabling including of switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided to the side of the remote control unit even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Seventh Embodiment 
   A seventh embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.  FIG. 11  illustrates the configuration of an image-taking device to which the seventh embodiment of the present invention has been applied. 
   In  FIG. 11 , reference numeral  100  denotes an exchangeable lens unit,  200  denotes a camera unit,  300  denotes a picture coaxial cable,  400  denotes a remote control unit for supplying the lens unit  100  with control signals for controlling an unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106  within the lens unit  100 , and with switching signals for switching between whether to control the unshown zoom lens unit, iris unit, and focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control, and  500  denotes a remote control cable for connecting the remote control unit  400  with the lens unit  100 . 
   In the lens unit  100 , reference numeral  101  denotes a picture input terminal for inputting picture signals via a picture coaxial cable  300 ,  102  denotes evaluation value generating means for extracting a sharpness evaluation value from the picture signals input from the picture input terminal  101 , and  103  denotes AF driving control means for generating motor control signals such that the sharpness evaluation value generated by the evaluation value generating means  102  is maximized. Reference numeral  104  denotes AF/MF switching means controlled by later-described switching signal determining means  108 , for switching between whether to drive the later-described motor  105  with motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103  or with motor control signals from the later-described MF driving control means  109 ,  105  denotes a motor operated by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103  or the later-described MF driving control means  109 , and  106  denotes a focus lens which moves along the optical axis by being driven by the motor  105 . Reference numeral  107  denotes a remote control input terminal for inputting MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  to the lens unit  100 ,  108  denotes switching signal determining means for determining whether signals from later-described control setting means  110  are AF control or MF control, and in the event of MF control whether speed control or positional control of the focus lens  106  is to be performed, outputting S/P switching command signals commanding whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or positional control and also switching the AF/MF switching means  104  according to whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with AF control or MF control. Reference numeral  109  denotes MF driving control means for generating motor control signals for driving the motor  105  with MF control signals to control the focus lens  106  with one or the other of speed control or positional control, based on S/P switching command signals from the switching signal determining means  108 ,  110  denotes AF/MF control setting means for setting whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or MF control, and  111  denotes AF/MF control setting state display means for displaying the setting state of the AF/MF control setting means  110 . 
   In the camera  200 , reference numeral  201  denotes a CCD,  202  denotes process means for converting the output signals of the CCD into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and  203  denotes recording/reproducing means for recording the picture signals, which are the output of the process means  202 , on a recording medium, and reproducing the pictures recorded therein. Reference numeral  204  denotes output switching means for selecting one of the process means  202  and recording/reproducing means  203  for output of the picture signals, and  205  denotes a picture output terminal for outputting picture signals which are the output of the output switching means  204 . 
   In the remote control unit  400 , reference numeral  401  denotes MF command signal generating means configured of switches and dials for generating MF command signals,  402  denotes S/P switching signal input means for switching between whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with speed control or positional control when under MF control, and  403  denotes a remote control output terminal for outputting the MF command signals and S/P switching signals from the remote control unit  400  to the lens unit  100 . 
   First, the actions of the above-described configuration in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means  110  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, will be described. The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to the process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the output switching means  204  and recording/reproducing means  203 . In a recording state, the output switching means  204  output the output for the process means  202  to the picture output terminal  205 , and the recording/reproducing means  203  record the output of the process means  202  to the recording medium. In a reproducing state, the recording/reproducing means  203  reproduce the picture signals recorded in the recording medium, and upon the picture signals being reproduced in a stable manner, the output switching means  204  output the picture signals of the recording/reproducing means  203  to the picture output terminal  205 . 
   Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . 
   On the other hand, the AF/MF control setting means  110  is set to drive the focus lens  106  with AF control, so Vref 3  is input to the switching signal determining means  108  and the AF/MF control setting state display means  111  display AF control. The signal from the AF/MF control setting means  110  is Vref 3 , so the switching signal determining means  108  switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the A side so as to control the focus lens  106  with AF control. Accordingly, the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , and thus the focus lens  106  is moved. 
   Next, description will be made regarding the actions in a case wherein the focus lens  106  has been set to being driven by MF control by the AF/MF control setting means  110 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 . 
   On the other hand, at the S/P switching signal input means  402 , S/P switching signals for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control are input to the switching signal determining means  108  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Also, the AF/MF control setting means  110  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so Vref 3  is not input to the switching signal determining means  108 , and the AF/MF control setting state display means  111  display MF control. At the switching signal determining means  108 , Vref 3  is not input from the AF/MF control setting means  110 , so the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control. In the event that the input S/P switching signal is Vref 1 , determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with speed control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 , and in the event that the input S/P switching signal is Vref 2 , determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with positional control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   According to such a configuration, the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with AF control or with MF control to be provided on the lens unit, even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Eighth Embodiment 
   While the seventh embodiment has been described as an arrangement wherein whether to perform AF control or MF control of the focus lens is switched by the settings of the AF/MF control setting means, an optical device with a configuration comprising command/switching signal determining means for switching the control of the focus lens to MF control upon the MF command signals generating means being operated even though the AF/MF control setting means are set to AF control for controlling the focus lens will be described as an eighth embodiment. 
   The eighth embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.  FIG. 12  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the eighth embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  107 ,  109 ,  110 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 , and  500  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Reference numeral  112  denotes command/switching signal determining means for determining whether a signal from the AF/MF control setting means  110  is for AF control or MF control, and further in the event that the signal is for AF control, determining whether or not the MF command signal generating means  401  have been operated, and in the event that the signal is for MF control, determining whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control, and further yet outputting S/P switching command signals to the MF driving control means  109  indicating whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control, and switching the AF/MF switching means  104  according to whether the focus lens  106  is to be controlled with AF control or with MF control. Reference numeral  113  denotes AF/MF control state display means for displaying whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or with MF control. 
   With the above-described configuration, the actions in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means  110  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, and the MF command signal generating means  401  are not operated, will be described. 
   The optical flux through the focus lens  106  is imaged on the imaging face of the CCD  201 , subjected to photoelectric conversion by the CCD  201 , and a held sample is input to process means  202 . At the process means  202 , the input signals are converted into a picture format such as NTSC signals or the like, and output to the output switching means  204  and recording/reproducing means  203 . 
   In a recording state, the output switching means  204  provides the output to the process means  202  to the picture output terminal  205 , and the recording/reproducing means  203  record the output of the process means  202  to the recording medium. In a reproducing state, the recording/reproducing means  203  reproduce the picture signals recorded in the recording medium, and upon the picture signals being reproduced in a stable manner, the output switching means  204  output the picture signals of the recording/reproducing means  203  to the picture output terminal  205 . 
   Picture signals are input to the picture input terminal  101  of the lens  100  from the picture output terminal  205  of the camera  200  via the picture coaxial cable  300 . The evaluation value generating means  102  generates sharpness evaluation values for the picture signals input to the picture input terminal  101 , relating to the frequency component of the picture being obtained by filter processing or the like and generated in increments of vertical synchronization cycles of the picture signals, and output the sharpness evaluation values to the AF driving control means  103 . 
   On the other hand, the AF/MF control setting means  110  is set to drive the focus lens  106  with AF control, so Vref 3  is input to the command/switching signal determining means  112 . The signal from the AF/MF control setting means  110  is Vref 3 , so the command/switching signal determining means  112  switch the AF/MF switching means  104  to the A side so as to control the focus lens  106  with AF control and the AF/MF control state display means  113  display AF control. Accordingly, the motor  105  is driven by motor control signals from the AF driving control means  103 , and thus the focus lens  106  is moved. 
   Next, the actions in a case wherein the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated in the above state will be described. In the event that the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, the command/switching signal determining means  112  determine that the MF command signal from the MF command signal generating means  401  has changed, the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side, and MF control is displayed at the AF/MF control state display means  113 . 
   At the same time, in the event that the S/P switching setting signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107  is Vref 1 , the command/switching signal determining means  112  output S/P switching command signals to the MF driving control means  109  so that control of the focus lens  106  is performed with speed control, and in the event that the S/P switching setting signal is Vref 2 , with positional control. 
   At the MF driving control means  109 , in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   Finally, a description will be made regarding the actions in a case wherein the focus lens  106  has been set to being driven by MF control by the AF/MF control setting means  110 . Operating the MF command signal generating means  401  configured of switches and dials and the like causes MF command signals proportionate to the operations thereof to be output, and input to the input to the MF driving control means  109  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 . 
   On the other hand, at the S/P switching signal input means  402 , S/P switching signals for switching between whether to control the focus lens  106  with speed control or with positional control are input to the command/switching signal determining means  112  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 . Also, the AF/MF control setting means  110  are set to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, so Vref 3  is not input to the command/switching signal determining means  112 . 
   At the command/switching signal determining means  112 , Vref 3  is not input from the AF/MF control setting means  110 , so the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side so as to control the focus lens  106  with MF control and the AF/MF control state display means  113  display MF control. In the event that the input S/P switching signal is Vref 1 , determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with speed control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with speed control is output to the MF driving control means  109 , and in the event that the input S/P switching signal is Vref 2 , determination is made to control the focus lens  106  with positional control, and an S/P switching command signal for controlling the focus lens  106  with positional control is output to the MF driving control means  109 . 
   In the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . On the other hand, in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by positional control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as positional control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  to the position specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   Also, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein the AF/MF control state display means  113  display whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or with MF control, an arrangement may be made wherein the AF/MF control state display means  113  display whether the AF/MF control setting means  110  are set to AF control or to MF control. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the preceding embodiment can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching between whether to control the focus lens with AF control or with MF control to be provided on the lens unit, even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   Ninth Embodiment 
   The eighth embodiment has been described as an arrangement wherein, even in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means are to control the focus lens with AF control, operating the MF command signal generating means switches the control of the focus lens to MF control by setting the S/P switching signal input means. A ninth embodiment will be descried as an optical device wherein in the event that the MF command signal generating means are operated under settings of the AF/MF control setting means to control the focus lens with AF control, the control of the focus lens to MF control is set to MF control only in the event that the setting of the S/P switching signal input means are to control the focus lens with speed control. 
   The ninth embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.  FIG. 12  illustrates the configuration of an optical device to which the ninth embodiment of the present invention has been applied. The components denoted by the reference numerals  100  through  107 ,  109 ,  110 ,  112 ,  113 ,  200  through  205 ,  300 ,  400  through  403 , and  500  have already been described above, so description thereof will be omitted. 
   Also, the actions in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means  110  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, and the MF command signal generating means  401  are not operated, and the actions in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means  110  are to control the focus lens  106  with MF control, have been described in the eighth embodiment, and accordingly description thereof will be omitted here. Instead, the actions of the above configuration in the event that the settings of the AF/MF control setting means  110  are to control the focus lens  106  with AF control, and the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated, will be described. 
   In a case wherein the MF command signal generating means  401  are operated while the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control, and in the event that the command/switching signal determining means  112  determines that the MF command signal from the MF command signal generating means  401  has changed and the S/P switching signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  is Vref 1 , the AF/MF switching means  104  are switched to the B side, and MF control is displayed at the AF/MF control state display means  113 . 
   In the event that the S/P switching signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  is Vref 3 , or the MF command signal generating means  401  have not been operated, the AF/MF switching means  104  go to the A side. At the same time, in the event that the S/P switching signal input from the S/P switching signal input means  402  via the remote control output terminal  403 , remote control cable  500 , and remote control input terminal  107 , is Vref 1 , the command/switching signal determining means  112  output a S/P switching command signal to the MF driving control means  109  to control the focus lens  106  with speed control. At the MF driving control means  109 , in the event that the S/P switching command signals indicate that the focus lens  106  is to be controlled by speed control, the MF driving control means  109  handle the MF command signals as speed control command signals, generate motor control signals for driving the motor  105  at a speed specified with the MF command signals, and drive the motor  105  to move the focus lens  106 . In this case, the focus lens  106  is being controlled with MF control, so the AF/MF control state display means  113  display MF control. 
   With the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding application to an exchangeable lens, which is detachable from the camera unit, the embodiment may be similarly applied to an integrally formed camera unit having a non-detachable lens unit. 
   Also, with the present embodiment, although a description has been made regarding an arrangement wherein the AF/MF control state display means  113  display whether the focus lens  106  is being controlled with AF control or with MF control, an arrangement may be made wherein the AF/MF control state display means  113  display whether the AF/MF control setting means  110  are set to AF control or to MF control. 
   According to such a configuration, the advantages of the preceding embodiments can be had, i.e., the remote system with AF control is arranged so as to allow switching means for switching control of the focus lens between AF control and MF control to be provided on the lens unit, even though there are no available pins in the electric interface between the remote control unit and the optical device, further enabling MF control when under AF control, thereby making the remote system more useful. 
   While the present invention has been described with reference to present embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.