Patent ID: 12216385

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

A first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<External Appearance of Imaging Apparatus>

FIG.1is a front perspective view of an imaging apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.2is a rear perspective view of the imaging apparatus. For convenience of description, a coordinate system is defined as illustrated inFIG.1. A Z-axis is defined as a front-back direction (the direction of the front side as the front lens side is a +Z-direction, and the direction of the back side is a −Z-direction) of the imaging apparatus. A Y-axis is defined as a vertical direction (the direction of the upper side is a +Y-direction, and the direction of the lower side is a −Y-direction) of the imaging apparatus. An X-axis is defined as a lateral direction (the direction of the right side surface side as viewed from the front is a +X-direction, and the direction of the left side surface side is a −X-direction) of the imaging apparatus.

A one-dot chain line illustrated inFIG.1indicates an optical axis1706. That is, the Z-direction corresponds to the optical axis direction. The imaging apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment is an interchangeable lens imaging apparatus and will hereinafter be referred to as the “imaging apparatus”.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, a housing forming an apparatus main body of an imaging apparatus1000includes six basic surfaces (a front surface, a back surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a left side surface, and a right side surface) and has a cuboid shape in which adjacent surfaces are approximately perpendicular to each other.

On the front surface side of the apparatus main body of the imaging apparatus1000, a front cover1004is provided. The front cover1004includes an opening portion1004acentered about the optical axis1706. Inside the opening portion1004a, a lens mount1001to which a lens device (lens barrel)3000(FIG.5) is detachably attachable is provided. Further, a lens contact portion1002for communicating with the lens device3000, and a lens detachment button1003for detaching the lens device3000are provided.

Inside the opening portion1004aprovided in the front cover1004, an image sensor1006that converts an object optical image acquired by the lens device3000into an electric signal is provided.

Further, an upper side protruding portion1100and a lower side protruding portion1101protruding further to the lens device3000side (in the +Z-direction) than the lens mount1001are provided above and below the front cover1004. The details of the protruding portions1100and1101will be described below.

On the left side surface side of the imaging apparatus1000as viewed from the front, a left side surface cover1030is provided. The left side surface cover1030includes a left side surface cover protruding portion1031protruding further than a left side surface cover first surface1030a, which is a main surface of the left side surface cover1030. In the left side surface cover protruding portion1031, a plurality of air intake ports1032is formed that draws low-temperature air from outside the imaging apparatus1000into the imaging apparatus1000by the driving of fans1404(FIG.4) placed inside the imaging apparatus1000. The details of the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the air intake ports1032will be described below.

In front upper and lower portions of the left side surface, tripod female threads1700gand1700hinto which male threads can be inserted in a direction approximately parallel to the X-axis are provided. The details of the tripod female threads1700gand1700hwill be described below.

On the right side surface side of the imaging apparatus1000as viewed from the front, a right side surface cover1015is provided. The right side surface cover1015includes a right side surface cover protruding portion1016protruding further than a right side surface cover first surface1015a, which is a main surface of the right side surface cover1015. In the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, a plurality of air exhaust ports1017is formed that exhausts hot air generated inside the imaging apparatus1000to outside the imaging apparatus1000by the driving of the fans1404(FIG.4) placed inside the imaging apparatus1000. The details of the right side surface cover protruding portion1016and the air exhaust ports1017will be described below.

On the right side surface side of the imaging apparatus1000as viewed from the front, further, a REC button (recording start/end button)1010that is operated by a photographer, and operation keys1011for changing camera settings are provided. Further, a microphone unit1012that records voice, and a card storage cover1013that covers a storage chamber for storing a memory card, which is a recording medium, are provided.

In front upper and lower portions of the right side surface, tripod female threads1700eand1700finto which male threads can be inserted in a direction approximately parallel to the X-axis are provided. The details of the tripod female threads1700eand1700fwill be described below.

On the upper surface side of the imaging apparatus1000, a display unit1040that displays an image captured by the imaging apparatus1000or an image capturing setting menu, and operation keys1041for a user to change image capturing settings are provided. Further, tripod female threads1700ato1700dfor fixing an external accessory, and electrical contacts1043for communicating with the external accessory are provided.

The external accessory is, for example, a display panel that displays a captured image or a recorded image, a handle unit into which a microphone terminal is built, or an external communication terminal such as a smartphone. If the external communication terminal such as a smartphone is connected to the imaging apparatus1000, the user may set the image capturing menu of the imaging apparatus1000or give an image capturing instruction through the external communication terminal, and a captured image or a recorded image may be displayed on a display screen of the external communication terminal.

Electrical contacts (not illustrated) of the external accessory are connected to the electrical contacts1043of the imaging apparatus1000, whereby it is possible to supply power or transmit and receive an electric signal between the external accessory and the imaging apparatus1000. A configuration may be employed in which the external accessory and the imaging apparatus1000are connected together using not only a wired connection via the electrical contacts but also a wireless local area network (LAN) based on Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (registered trademark) or a wireless communication function provided in the smartphone. For example, a mobile phone line based on the fourth generation mobile communication system or the fifth generation mobile communication system may be used. Further, a configuration may be employed in which the imaging apparatus1000wirelessly communicates with outside via the external accessory.

A configuration may be employed in which the display unit1040is joined to the imaging apparatus1000by a rotating hinge so that the viewing angle of the display unit1040to the imaging apparatus1000can be changed. A configuration may be employed in which a touch panel is provided on the surface of the display unit1040, and a menu is directly set by operating the touch panel.

On the back surface side of the imaging apparatus1000, battery storage portions1020that store batteries1070, and an external input/output terminals1021including an external connection terminal and a power supply terminal are provided. The battery storage portions1020are placed in two places one above the other, whereby, even in a case where one of the batteries1070runs out, the other battery1070can feed power. Thus, it is possible to continuously use the camera by replacing the battery without turning off the camera.

On the lower surface side of the imaging apparatus1000, a tripod thread portion1050for fixing the imaging apparatus1000to a tripod is provided.

<Internal Configuration of Imaging Apparatus>

Next, the internal configuration of the imaging apparatus1000will be described.FIG.3is a front exploded perspective view of the internal main components of the imaging apparatus1000.FIG.4is a rear exploded perspective view of the internal main components of the imaging apparatus1000.

As illustrated inFIGS.3and4, the inside of the imaging apparatus1000is broadly divided into an imaging unit1300, a main unit1400, and a card unit1500. These units are placed along the optical axis1706(the Z-axis) in the above order from the front side.

The imaging unit1300includes an image sensor holding member1301that holds the lens mount1001and the image sensor1006. The image sensor1006is electrically connected to an image sensor substrate1302by soldering.

The image sensor1006is mechanically fixed to an image sensor holding plate1303with an adhesive. The image sensor holding plate1303is fixed to the image sensor holding member1301with screws. The image sensor1006, the image sensor substrate1302, and the image sensor holding plate1303are placed perpendicular to the optical axis1706in the above order from the front side.

Similarly, the lens mount1001is also fixed to the image sensor holding member1301with screws. The distance from a mount surface1001aof the lens mount1001to an imaging surface1006a(seeFIG.9) of the image sensor1006is the flange focal distance of the imaging apparatus1000. An internal adjustment washer1304is sandwiched between the image sensor holding plate1303and the image sensor holding member1301. The thickness of the internal adjustment washer1304is adjusted so that the imaging apparatus1000has a predetermined flange focal distance when assembled.

It is desirable that the flange focal distance should be set to 20 mm or less, and the inner diameter of the lens mount1001should be set to 45 mm or more. For example, the flange focal distance is set to 20 mm, and the inner diameter of the mount1001is set to 54 mm. The lens contact portion1002for communicating with the lens device3000includes, for example, a 12-pin electronic contact.

Between the lens mount1001and the image sensor1006, a neutral density (ND) unit1305is provided and fixed to the image sensor holding member1301with screws. The ND unit1305includes a plurality of ND filters (not illustrated) having different densities as optical components. The ND filters reduce incident light, whereby it is possible to decrease the shutter speed or open the diaphragm of the lens device3000when capturing an image.

An image signal output from the image sensor substrate1302, a lens communication signal from the lens device3000connected to the lens contact portion1002, and a control signal for the ND unit1305are transmitted to a main substrate1401of the main unit1400by internal wiring (not illustrated) such as a wire.

The main unit1400includes the main substrate1401that controls the operation of the imaging apparatus1000, a heat sink1402thermally connected to the main substrate1401, a heat dissipation plate1403that covers the heat sink1402, and fans1404that send air into the heat sink1402. The heat dissipation plate1403, the heat sink1402, and the main substrate1401are placed perpendicular to the optical axis1706in the above order from the front side. That is, the main substrate1401is placed parallel to the image sensor substrate1302.

The heat sink1402is molded by aluminum die casting, which has excellent heat conductivity. The main substrate1401is fixed with screws in the state where an integrated circuit (IC) chip mounted on the substrate and acting as a heat source is thermally connected to the heat sink1402via a heat transfer member such as heat dissipation rubber or grease (not illustrated). To diffuse heat transferred from the main substrate1401, which is the main heat source of the imaging apparatus1000, it is desirable that the heat sink1402should have as large a surface area as possible. In the present exemplary embodiment, the main substrate1401and the heat sink1402have approximately the same outer shapes when projected.

The heat sink1402also includes a plurality of heat dissipation fins1405protruding in parallel on the opposite side of a surface of the heat sink1402that is opposed to the main substrate1401. The heat dissipation fins1405extend in the lateral direction of the imaging apparatus1000. The heat dissipation plate1403is fixed to the heat sink1402with screws to cover the heat dissipation fins1405, whereby the heat dissipation plate1403and the heat sink1402form a ventilation duct unit1406in which air flows among the plurality of heat dissipation fins1405.

The heat dissipation plate1403is formed into an L-shape that abuts a surface of the ventilation duct unit1406that is orthogonal to the heat dissipation fins1405. The fans1404are fixed to a surface of the L-shaped heat dissipation plate1403(in the present exemplary embodiment, the left side surface of the imaging apparatus1000) that is orthogonal to the main substrate1401and the heat dissipation fins1405. The fans1404are axial flow fans, and draw in air from a surface direction and exhaust the air in a surface direction.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the two fans1404are placed one above the other in the vertical direction on the left side of the imaging apparatus1000and exhaust air to a side surface of the heat dissipation fins1405. That is, the fans1404placed in an inlet portion of the ventilation duct unit1406serve as an air intake portion1407, draw in cool air, and exhaust the cool air to the heat dissipation fins1405to which heat is transferred from the heat source of the main substrate1401. By drawing in and exhausting air in such a manner, it is possible to exhaust hot air resulting from heat exchange with the heat dissipation fins1405to an opening end on the opposite side. The opening end on the opposite side serves as an air exhaust portion1408.

The air intake portion1407of the ventilation duct unit1406is connected to the air intake ports1032of the imaging apparatus1000, and the air exhaust portion1408of the ventilation duct unit1406is connected to the air exhaust ports1017of the imaging apparatus1000. That is, the fans1404(the air intake portion1407) are connected to the air intake ports1032of the imaging apparatus1000, whereby it is possible to draw cool air from outside the imaging apparatus1000into the imaging apparatus1000. The air exhaust portion1408is connected to the air exhaust ports1017of the imaging apparatus1000, whereby it is possible to exhaust hot air from inside the imaging apparatus1000to outside the imaging apparatus1000. The details of the above internal forced air cooling mechanism will be described below.

The card unit1500includes a card substrate1502on which card sockets1501are mounted, and a card substrate holding member1503that holds the card substrate1502. In the present exemplary embodiment, the two card sockets1501are mounted on the card substrate1502, whereby it is possible to perform simultaneous recording for backup and relay recording for long-duration recording.

The card substrate holding member1503, the card substrate1502, and the card sockets1501are placed perpendicular to the optical axis1706in the above order from the front side. That is, the card substrate1502is placed parallel to the main substrate1401and the image sensor substrate1302. The card substrate1502is connected to the main substrate1401by internal wiring (not illustrated) such as a wire, and video data is recorded in a memory card attached to each of the card sockets1501.

As described above, the image sensor substrate1302, the main substrate1401, and the card substrate1502that require relatively large areas are placed parallel to each other along the optical axis1706, whereby it is possible to efficiently place the three substrates in the imaging apparatus1000and contribute to the downsizing of the imaging apparatus1000. Further, the ventilation duct unit1406is placed parallel to the main substrate1401, which is the main heat source, whereby it is possible to diffuse the heat of the main substrate1401in a wide range and exhaust the heat using the fans1404. A structure may be employed in which the heat of the image sensor substrate1302or the card substrate1502is also transferred to and dissipated by the ventilation duct unit1406.

<Configuration Block Diagram of Imaging Apparatus>

FIG.15is a block diagram illustrating the general configuration of the imaging apparatus1000. The functional configuration of the imaging apparatus1000will be described with reference toFIG.15.

The imaging apparatus1000includes a lens communication unit1800, the image sensor1006mounted on the sensor substrate1302, the main substrate1401, the card substrate1502, and the microphone unit1012. Further, the imaging apparatus1000includes the external input/output terminals1021, the attachable and detachable batteries1070, an operation unit1044, the fans1404, and the display unit1040. A central processing unit (CPU)2041, a read-only memory (ROM)2042, and a random-access memory (RAM)2043are mounted on the main substrate1401.

The ROM2042is an electrically erasable and recordable memory. As the ROM2042, for example, an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) is used. The ROM2042stores a constant for the operation of the CPU2041and a program. The CPU2041executes a program stored in the ROM2042, thereby controlling the operations of the components included in the imaging apparatus1000. This achieves overall control of the imaging apparatus1000.

The RAM2043is used as a system memory, a work memory, an image memory, and a sound memory. A constant and a variable for the operation of the CPU2041and a program read from the ROM2042are loaded into the RAM2043.

The image sensor1006is a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor and includes an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter. The lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000forms an optical image of incident light on the image sensor1006. The image sensor1006converts the formed optical image into an analog electric signal, further causes the A/D converter to convert the analog electric signal into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal as a video signal. The generated digital video signal is output to a video signal processing unit2146on the main substrate1401.

The video signal processing unit2146performs predetermined processing on the input digital video signal and further combines the resulting signal with a separately introduced sound signal and various types of metadata, thereby generating video data. The video data generated by the video signal processing unit2146is sent to the display unit1040and displayed as a video on the display unit1040. At this time, the operating state of the imaging apparatus1000is displayed as on-screen display information, where necessary.

The image sensor1006includes a plurality of phase difference detection pixels. The video signal processing unit2146can perform a correlation calculation using signals output from the plurality of phase difference detection pixels, and based on the result of the correlation calculation, control the focal position of the attached lens device3000, thereby performing autofocus using an imaging plane phase difference detection method.

When the photographer selects recording, the video data generated by the video signal processing unit2146is subjected to predetermined processing, thereby being converted into various formats. Then, the video data is sent to the card substrate1502and saved as a video in a recording medium.

On the other hand, in a case where a predetermined connector is connected to the external connection terminal1021, the video signal processing unit2146can output the video signal to the external connection terminal1021, thereby transmitting the video signal to an external device.

The imaging apparatus1000can cause the video signal processing unit2146to read the recording data saved in the recording medium, thereby regenerating the original video data. Then, the regenerated video data can be output to the display unit1040or the external connection terminal1021.

The gain of a sound signal input from the microphone unit1012is controlled to a predetermined level, and then, the sound signal is subjected to A/D conversion, thereby being converted into digital sound data. Video data and sound data are temporarily stored in the RAM2043.

The CPU2041transmits the video data and the sound data temporarily stored in the RAM2043to the card substrate1502. The recording medium can be inserted into and removed from the card substrate1502, and the video data and the sound data are recorded in the recording medium. As the recording medium, a Secure Digital (SD) card or an attachable and detachable flash memory such as a memory card compliant with a standard such as CompactFlash (CF), CompactFast (CFast), XQD, or CFexpress is used.

The fans1404operate based on temperature acquired by a temperature detection unit (not illustrated), draw air into the imaging apparatus1000, and exhaust the air. The rotation states of the fans1404are controlled by the CPU2041.

The operation unit1044transmits an instruction given by an operation of the user to the CPU2041. The operation unit1044includes the REC button1010, a power switch, and the operation keys1011(seeFIG.1).

Various instructions from the user is transmitted to the CPU2041by operation of the operation unit1044by the user.

A power supply control unit (not illustrated) includes a battery detection circuit, a direct-current-to-direct-current (DC-DC) converter, and a switch circuit that switches a block to which to apply a current. The power supply control unit detects the presence or absence of attachment of a battery, the type of a battery, and the remaining life of a battery. For example, the batteries1070that supply power to the imaging apparatus1000are attachable to and detachable from the imaging apparatus1000and are lithium-ion batteries.

The display unit1040is, for example, a liquid crystal display device and displays the operating state of the imaging apparatus1000as on-screen display information, where necessary.

If the lens contact portion1002provided in the lens communication unit1800of the imaging apparatus1000and a lens contact portion on the lens device3000side (the details will be described below) come into contact and become conductive with each other, the CPU2041of the imaging apparatus1000detects the attachment of the lens device3000. If detecting the attachment of the lens device3000, the CPU2041reads lens information from a built-in memory of the lens device3000and stores the lens information in the RAM2043. The details will be described below.

In the imaging apparatus1000according to the present exemplary embodiment, for example, light received by the image sensor1006is converted into digital image data of at least approximately 23 frames/second (fps), and the digital image data is recorded in the recording medium by the card substrate1502. The frame rate can be set in the range of approximately 1 to 250 fps or more. For example, the imaging apparatus1000may change the frame rate according to the set resolution.

That is, in a “5K” resolution mode, the frame rate is set to approximately 1 to 100 fps. In a “4K” resolution mode, the frame rate is set to approximately 1 to 125 fps. In a quad high definition (QHD) mode, the frame rate is set to approximately 1 to 125 fps. In a “3K” resolution mode, the frame rate is set to approximately 1 to 160 fps. In a “2K” resolution mode, the frame rate is set to approximately 1 to 250 fps. For example, the frame rate may be set to 20, 23.976, 24, 30, 60, or 120 frames/second, or another frame rate between these frame rates, or a frame rate greater than or equal to these frame rates.

The imaging apparatus1000can output image data with a “2K” resolution (e.g., 16:9 (2048×1152 pixels) or 2:1 (2048×1024 pixels)) or a “3K” resolution (e.g., 16:9 (3072×1728 pixels) or 2:1 (3072×1536 pixels)). The imaging apparatus1000can also output image data with a “4K” resolution (e.g., 4096×2540 pixels, 16:9 (4096×2304 pixels), or 2:1 (4096×2048 pixels)) or a “4.5K” horizontal resolution.

The imaging apparatus1000can also output image data based on QHD (e.g., 3840×2160 pixels) or with a “5K” horizontal resolution (e.g., 5120×2700), a “6K” resolution (e.g., 6144×3160), or an “8K” resolution (e.g., 7680×4320). Further, the imaging apparatus1000can output image data with a resolution greater than or equal to these resolutions. The imaging apparatus1000can be configured to record or output image data having at least a horizontal resolution between any of the above resolutions.

Further, the resolution is at least one value between the above values (or any value between the above values), and can take approximately 6.5K, 7K, 8K, 9K, or 10K, or any value between these values. In the present exemplary embodiment, in a term represented in an xK format (2K, 4K, and the like), the number of “x” refers to an approximate horizontal resolution. A “4K” resolution corresponds to approximately 4000 or more horizontal pixels. A “2K” resolution corresponds to approximately 2000 or more horizontal pixels.

The image sensor1006can be in the range from approximately 0.5 inches (8 mm), ⅔ inches, the S35 format for movies, 35 mm full-frame still, to the 645 format, and can be at least approximately 1.0 inch or 6×17 cm or more. The image sensor1006can also have a size of at least approximately 10.1×5.35 mm, 24.4×13 7 mm, 30×15 mm, 36×24 mm, 56×42 mm, or 186×56 mm.

Additionally, the image sensor1006can be configured to selectively output only a predetermined portion of a pixel region, thereby providing a variable resolution. The image sensor1006can include, for example, color filters in the Bayer arrangement. Thus, the image sensor1006outputs data indicating the amount of red light, green light, or blue light detected by an individual photoelectric conversion element of the image sensor1006.

<Detailed Configuration of Mount>

Next, the detailed configurations of mounts of the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000will be described with reference toFIGS.16A and16B.FIG.16Ais a schematic diagram of the lens mount1001of the imaging apparatus1000as viewed from the object side.FIG.16Bis a schematic diagram of a mount250of the lens device3000as viewed from the image plane side.

The lens mount1001is provided on the front side (the object side) of the imaging apparatus1000. The lens mount1001includes a ring-shaped mount reference surface151for ensuring the predetermined flange focal distance. Inside the mount reference surface151, bayonet claws152ato152care provided in three places in the circumferential direction of the mount reference surface151.

In the lens mount1001, a lock pin153for positioning the mount250of the lens device3000when the mount250is bayonet-coupled to the lens mount1001is provided so that the lock pin153can protrude and retract relative to the mount reference surface151. If the lens mount1001and the mount250of the lens device3000rotate relative to each other to the position where the attachment of the lens device3000is completed, a fitting hole253provided in the mount250of the lens device3000and the lock pin153engage with each other.

In a region inside the bayonet claws152ato152c, a camera-side contact holding unit154is provided. The camera-side contact holding unit154holds electrical contacts (camera-side electrical contacts)3001to3012.

The mount250is fixed to a back end portion (the image plane side) of the lens device3000. The mount250includes a ring-shaped mount reference surface251, which is a reference surface for the flange focal distance. Inside the mount reference surface251, bayonet claws252ato252care provided in three places in the circumferential direction of the mount reference surface251. The fitting hole253is provided in the mount250. When the attachment of the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000is completed, the fitting hole253engages with the lock pin153.

In a region inside the bayonet claws252ato252c, an accessory-side contact holding unit254is provided. The accessory-side contact holding unit254holds electrical contacts (lens-side electrical contacts)4001to4012.

Next,FIG.17is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration in the state where the lens device3000is connected to the imaging apparatus1000. The lens device3000and the imaging apparatus1000can communicate with each other via communication paths formed by some of the plurality of electrical contacts provided in the lens mount1001and the mount250. The lens device3000and the imaging apparatus1000can perform first communication, second communication, and third communication.

A camera control unit101controls the output of each electrical contact provided in the lens mount1001and processes a signal input to the electrical contact, thereby controlling communication performed between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000.

A camera power supply unit103is a power supply used for the operations of the components of the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000. The camera power supply unit103generates a plurality of different voltages and supplies power having the voltages to the components of the imaging apparatus1000or the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000.

A power supply switching unit104supplies power to a first communication interface (I/F) unit102a. To the power supply switching unit104, power having two different voltage values is supplied from the power supply unit103. Under control of the camera control unit101, the power supply switching unit104can switch the power supplied to the first communication I/F unit102a.

A lens control unit201controls the output of each electrical contact provided in the mount250and processes a signal input to the electrical contact, thereby controlling communication performed between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000.

A lens power supply unit203generates power having a predetermined voltage from power supplied from the imaging apparatus1000and supplies the generated power to the lens control unit201and a lens-side communication I/F unit202.

The electrical contact3001and the electrical contact4001are terminals used to supply power (communication power) mainly used to control communication performed between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000, from the power supply unit103of the imaging apparatus1000to the lens device3000.

Hereinafter, the electrical contact3001and the electrical contact4001will also be referred to as the “VDD terminal3001” and the “VDD terminal4001”, respectively. In the present exemplary embodiment, the voltage of power supplied from the VDD terminal3001to the lens device3000(hereinafter referred to as the “VDD voltage”) is 5.0 V.

The electrical contact (first camera-side electrical contact, also referred to as “first electrical contact”)3002and the electrical contact4002are terminals used to supply power (driving power) mainly used for the operation of a driving system such as a motor, from the imaging apparatus1000to the lens device3000. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3002and the electrical contact4002will also be referred to as the “VBAT terminal3002” and the “VBAT terminal4002”, respectively.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the voltage of power supplied from the VBAT terminal3002to the lens device3000(hereinafter referred to as the “VBAT voltage”) is 4.5 V. The VBAT voltage corresponds to a third voltage. The VDD terminals3001and4001and the VBAT terminals3002and4002are also collectively referred to as “power supply system terminals”.

The electrical contact3012and the electrical contact4012are terminals for connecting one or more communication control system circuits of the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000to the ground (the ground level). That is, the electrical contacts3012and4012are ground terminals corresponding to the VDD terminals3001and4001. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3012and the electrical contact4012will also be referred to as the “DGND terminal3012” and the “DGND terminal4012”, respectively.

The electrical contact (second camera-side electrical contact, also referred to as “second electrical contact”)3004and the electrical contact4004are terminals for connecting one or more driving system circuits including motors and provided in the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000to the ground (the ground level). That is, the electrical contacts3004and4004are ground terminals corresponding to the VBAT terminals3002and4002. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3004and the electrical contact4004will also be referred to as the “PGND terminal3004” and the “PGND terminal4004”, respectively. The DGND terminals3012and4012and the PGND terminals3004and4004will also be collectively referred to as “ground terminals”.

The electrical contact3005and the electrical contact4005are terminals for detecting that the lens device3000is attached to the imaging apparatus1000. According to the voltage level of the electrical contact3005, the camera control unit101detects the attachment or detachment of the lens device3000to or from the imaging apparatus1000. If the camera control unit101detects the attachment of the lens device3000, the camera control unit101starts the supply of power to the lens device3000via the VDD terminal3001and the VBAT terminal3002. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3005and the electrical contact4005will also be referred to as the “MIF terminal3005” and the “MIF terminal4005”, respectively.

The electrical contact (third camera-side electrical contact, also referred to as “third electrical contact”)3003and the electrical contact (first lens-side electrical contact, also referred to as “fourth electrical contact”)4003are terminals for distinguishing the type of the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000. In the imaging apparatus1000, the electrical contact3003is pulled up via a resistor (first resistor)125to the same voltage as that of power supplied to the camera control unit101.

In the lens device3000, the electrical contact4003is pulled down to the ground (DGND) via a resistor222. The resistor222has a resistance value determined in common among lens devices3000of the same type as the lens device3000. Thus, the electrical contact4003connects to the electrical contact3003and thereby can change the voltage of the electrical contact3003to a voltage corresponding to the type of the lens device3000.

The camera control unit101detects the voltage value of the electrical contact3003, and based on the detected voltage value, distinguishes the type of the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000. The camera control unit101controls the power supply switching unit104to switch the power supplied from the power supply switching unit104to the first communication I/F unit102aaccording to the type of the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000. This allows the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000to communicate with each other at appropriate communication voltages. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3003and the electrical contact4003will also be referred to as the “TYPE terminal3003” and the “TYPE terminal4003”, respectively.

The electrical contacts3006to3008and the electrical contacts4006to4008are terminals used for first communication. The inputs and outputs of the electrical contacts3006to3008are controlled by the camera control unit101via the first communication OF unit102a. The inputs and outputs of the electrical contacts4006to4008are controlled by the lens control unit201via the lens-side communication I/F unit202.

The electrical contact3008and the electrical contact4008are terminals capable of outputting a clock pulse used for the first communication from the imaging apparatus1000to the lens device3000. The electrical contact3008and the electrical contact4008are also used by the lens device3000to notify the imaging apparatus1000of a communication standby request. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3008and the electrical contact4008will also be referred to as the “LCLK terminal3008” and the “LCLK terminal4008”, respectively.

In the imaging apparatus1000, the LCLK terminal3008is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the first communication I/F unit102avia a resistor120. In the lens device3000, the LCLK terminal4008is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the lens-side communication I/F unit202via a resistor220.

The electrical contact3006and the electrical contact4006are terminals capable of transmitting data from the imaging apparatus1000to the lens device3000through the first communication. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3006and the electrical contact4006will also be referred to as the “DCL terminal3006” and the “DCL terminal4006”, respectively. In the lens device3000, the DCL terminal4006is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the lens-side communication I/F unit202via a resistor221.

The electrical contact3007and the electrical contact4007are terminals capable of transmitting data from the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000through the first communication. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3007and the electrical contact4007will also be referred to as the “DLC terminal3007” and the “DLC terminal4007”, respectively. In the imaging apparatus1000, the DLC terminal3007is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the first communication I/F unit102avia a resistor121.

Hereinafter, the LCLK terminal3008, the DCL terminal3006, and the DLC terminal3007used for the first communication will also be referred to as a “first camera-side electrical contact group”. The LCLK terminal4008, the DCL terminal4006, and the DLC terminal4007will also be referred to as a “first lens-side electrical contact group”.

The electrical contact3009and the electrical contact4009are used for second communication. The electrical contact3009and the electrical contact4009are terminals capable of transmitting data from the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000through the second communication. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3009and the electrical contact4009will also be referred to as the “DLC2 terminal3009” and the “DLC2 terminal4009”, respectively. In the imaging apparatus1000, the DLC2 terminal3009is pulled down to the same potential as that of the DGND terminal3012via a resistor122.

The electrical contacts3010and3011and the electrical contacts4010and4011are terminals used for third communication.

The electrical contact3010and the electrical contact4010are terminals capable of transmitting and receiving data in both directions between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000through the third communication. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3010and the electrical contact4010will also be referred to as the “DCA terminal3010” and the “DCA terminal4010”, respectively. In the imaging apparatus1000, the DCA terminal3010is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of a second/third communication I/F unit102bvia a resistor124.

The DCA terminal3010is connected to the camera control unit101via a CMOS-type input/output interface. Similarly, the DCA terminal4010is connected to the lens control unit201via a CMOS-type input/output interface. This allows the camera control unit101and the lens control unit201to transmit and receive data at high speed using the DCA terminals3010and4010.

The electrical contact3011and the electrical contact4011are terminals used by the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000to notify each other of a predetermined timing described below regarding the third communication. Hereinafter, the electrical contact3011and the electrical contact4011will also be referred to as the “CS terminal3011” and the “CS terminal4011”, respectively. In the imaging apparatus1000, the CS terminal3011is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the second/third communication I/F unit102bvia a resistor123. In the lens device3000, the CS terminal4011is pulled up to the same potential as the interface voltage of the lens-side communication I/F unit202via a resistor224.

The CS terminal3011is connected to the camera control unit101via an open-type output interface. Similarly, the CS terminal4011is connected to the lens control unit201via an open-type output interface. An “open-type output interface” refers to an output interface that is an open drain or an open collector.

In the present exemplary embodiment, if the lens device3000is attached to the imaging apparatus1000, the interface voltages of the first communication I/F unit102aand the second/third communication I/F unit102bare set to 3.0 V (a first voltage). The interface voltage of the lens-side communication I/F unit202is set to 3.0 V (the first voltage). Hereinafter, the LCLK terminals3008and4008, the DCL terminals3006and4006, the DLC terminals3007and4007, the DLC2 terminals3009and4009, the CS terminals3011and4011, and the DCA terminals3010and4010will also be collectively referred to as “communication system terminals”.

Next, a description will be given of communication performed between the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000and the imaging apparatus1000.

First, first communication will be described. The first communication is one type of communication performed between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000. The first communication is performed using the LCLK terminals3008and4008, the DCL terminals3006and4006, and the DLC terminals3007and4007. The first communication is performed using a clock synchronization communication method. Alternatively, the first communication may be performed using an asynchronous communication method. In this case, the LCLK terminals3008and4008are used as terminals for the imaging apparatus1000to notify the lens device3000of a data transmission request.

The imaging apparatus1000transmits a control command for controlling the lens device3000to the lens device3000through the first communication. The control command includes a command to drive a driving unit (not illustrated) of the lens device3000. Examples of the driving unit of the lens device3000can include a focus lens, a zoom lens, and diaphragm blades.

Receiving the control command transmitted through the first communication, the lens device3000performs an operation according to the command. In response to the control command, the lens device3000transmits information regarding the state of the lens device3000(state information) to the imaging apparatus1000through the first communication. The information regarding the state includes information regarding the position of the focus lens, the focal length, and the stop value.

As described above, the first communication is communication mainly used to control the lens device3000.

Next, second communication will be described. The second communication is one type of communication performed between the imaging apparatus1000and the lens device3000attached to the imaging apparatus1000and is asynchronous communication performed using the DLC2 terminals3009and4009.

In the second communication, the lens device3000as a communication master transmits optical data indicating the position of the focus lens, the position of the zoom lens, the stop value, and the state of an image stabilization lens in the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000. The types and the order of data to be transmitted from the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000through the second communication are specified by the imaging apparatus1000through the first communication.

The flow of the second communication will be described with reference toFIG.18. A flowchart inFIG.18is started at the timing when imaging control is started.

In step S1401, the imaging apparatus1000transmits a start request to start the second communication to the lens device3000through the first communication. The start request transmitted in step S1401includes a registration communication command in which the type of data that the imaging apparatus1000should receive from the lens device3000through the second communication and the order of reception of data are registered in advance.

In step S1411, the lens device3000receives the start request from the imaging apparatus1000. In step S1412, the lens device3000generates data of the type specified by the registration communication command included in the start request in the specified order.

In step S1413, the lens device3000transmits the data generated in step S1412to the imaging apparatus1000through the second communication. That is, using the DLC2 terminal4009, the lens device3000transmits the data generated in step S1412to the imaging apparatus1000.

In step S1402, the imaging apparatus1000receives the data transmitted from the lens device3000through the second communication.

If the imaging control is started again after step S1402or S1413, the control illustrated inFIG.18is started again.

As described above, the start request to start the second communication is made through the first communication, and the transmission of the data from the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000through the second communication is performed using the DLC2 terminal4009. Thus, the second communication is performed by providing the DLC2 terminal4009separately from the electrical contacts used for the first communication, whereby it is possible to transmit optical data from the lens device3000to the imaging apparatus1000without hindering another type of communication that needs to be performed through the first communication.

Since the start request to start the second communication is made through the first communication, the second communication cannot be performed in a case where the first communication is not established.

<Configurations of Front Side Protruding Portions>

Description will be given of the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101provided on the front surface of the imaging apparatus1000with reference toFIGS.1,2, and5to7.FIG.5is a right side view in the state where the lens device3000is attached to the imaging apparatus1000.FIG.6is a top view of the imaging apparatus1000.FIG.7is an enlarged view of the electrical contacts1043inFIG.6.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and5, the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101are provided to sandwich the lens mount1001in the vertical direction of the imaging apparatus1000. The upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101protrude further than the mount surface1001ain the direction of the optical axis1706(the +Z-direction).

As illustrated inFIG.5, the upper side protruding portion1100is provided continuously from the upper surface (an upper flat surface) of the imaging apparatus1000and includes an upper surface (upper flat surface)1707approximately parallel to the optical axis1706. Similarly, the lower side protruding portion1101is provided continuously from the lower surface (a lower flat surface) of the imaging apparatus1000and includes a lower surface (lower flat surface)1708approximately parallel to the optical axis1706.

As described above, each of the upper surface1707of the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower surface1708of the lower side protruding portion1101is a surface approximately parallel to the optical axis1706. Consequently, it is possible to improve balance by coming into contact with the ground in an area made wider by each protruding portion. Then, not only the capturing of an image by placing the lower surface of the imaging apparatus1000down on the ground, but also the capturing of an image by placing the upper surface of the imaging apparatus1000down on the ground can be performed in a stable state.

The upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101are provided in such a manner, whereby, even when the imaging apparatus1000is placed on the ground with the mount surface1001adown in the state where the lens device3000is detached from the imaging apparatus1000, it is possible to protect the mount surface1001a. That is, it is possible to prevent the mount surface1001afrom coming into contact with the ground.

Further, an amount of protrusion D1in the Z-direction of the upper side protruding portion1100is approximately the same as an amount of protrusion D2in the Z-direction of the lower side protruding portion1101. The amounts of protrusion are thus approximately the same, whereby, in a case where the lens device3000is attached to the imaging apparatus1000and an image is captured by placing the lower surface of the imaging apparatus1000down on the ground, it is possible to prevent the imaging apparatus1000from falling over to the front side by the weight of the lens device3000. Also in a case where an image is captured by placing the upper surface of the imaging apparatus1000down on the ground, it is possible to prevent the imaging apparatus1000from falling over to the front side by the weight of the lens device3000.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the upper side protruding portion1100includes a sloping portion1704. The sloping portion1704is formed so that the thickness in the vertical direction (the ±Y-direction) of the upper side protruding portion1100becomes smaller toward the front direction (the +Z-direction) of the imaging apparatus1000. That is, the sloping portion1704slopes in a direction away from the optical axis1706(the +Y-direction) toward the front direction (the +Z-direction) of the imaging apparatus1000.

Similarly, the lower side protruding portion1101includes a sloping portion1705. The sloping portion1705is formed so that the thickness in the vertical direction (the ±Y-direction) of the lower side protruding portion1101becomes smaller toward the front direction (the +Z-direction) of the imaging apparatus1000. That is, the sloping portion1705slopes in a direction away from the optical axis1706(the −Y-direction) toward the front direction (the +Z-direction) of the imaging apparatus1000.

The thicknesses in the vertical direction of the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101are set as described above, whereby it is possible to enhance the mechanical strengths of the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101in regions that do not interfere with the lens device3000.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and2, on the upper surface1707of the upper side protruding portion1100, the tripod female threads1700ato1700dare provided so that male threads of an external accessory can be inserted into the tripod female threads1700ato1700din a direction approximately parallel to the Y-axis, and the electrical contacts1043are also provided. Side surfaces (the right side surface cover first surface1015aand the left side surface cover first surface1030a) of the upper side protruding portion1100include the tripod female threads1700eand1700gprovided so that male threads of an external accessory can be inserted into the tripod female threads1700eand1700gin a direction approximately parallel to the X-axis.

Side surfaces (the right side surface cover first surface1015aand the left side surface cover first surface1030a) of the lower side protruding portion1101include the tripod female threads1700fand1700hprovided so that male threads of an external accessory can be inserted into the tripod female threads1700fand1700hin a direction approximately parallel to the X-axis. Various external accessories as described above can be attached to the tripod female threads1700ato1700h.

That is, the tripod female threads1700ato1700hand the electrical contacts1043can be provided in the imaging apparatus1000without making the outermost dimensions large in the state where the lens device3000is attached to the imaging apparatus1000as illustrated inFIG.5. The outermost dimensions include an outermost dimension L in the front-back direction (a longitudinal direction), an outermost dimension H in the vertical direction (a height direction), and an outermost dimension W in the lateral direction (a width direction) of the imaging apparatus1000as illustrated inFIG.6.

Further, in a case where a first external accessory (not illustrated) is attached by male threads provided in the first external accessory engaging with the tripod female threads1700aand1700b, an electrical contact portion of the first external accessory is electrically connected to a contact group1701and a contact group1702as illustrated inFIG.7in the electrical contacts1043.

On the other hand, in a case where a second external accessory (not illustrated) is attached by male threads of the second external accessory by engaging with the tripod female threads1700cand1700d, an electrical contact portion of the second external accessory is electrically connected to the contact group1702and a contact group1703as illustrated inFIG.7in the electrical contacts1043.

As described above, the contact group1702is common contacts between a case where the first external accessory is attached and a case where the second external accessory is attached. That is, it is possible to make an area for providing the tripod female threads1700ato1700dand the electrical contacts1043smaller in the optical axis direction than in a case where a dedicated contact group is provided for each of the first and second external accessories.

The present disclosure is not limited to a configuration as described above. That is, the present disclosure is not limited to a configuration in which an upper side protruding portion extending from an upper surface of an imaging apparatus to the front side in an optical axis direction and a lower side protruding portion extending from a lower surface of the imaging apparatus to the front side in the optical axis direction are provided.

For example, in addition to the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101, further, a left side protruding portion extending from the left side of the imaging apparatus1000to the front side in the optical axis direction, and a right side protruding portion extending from the right side of the imaging apparatus100to the front side in the optical axis direction may be provided. In this case, a configuration may be employed in which the lengths in the X-direction (the lateral direction of the imaging apparatus1000) of the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101are shorter than those described above in the present exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which the upper side protruding portion1100and the lower side protruding portion1101are not provided, and only the right side protruding portion and the left side protruding portion are provided. Yet alternatively, a configuration may be employed in which two or more of the upper side protruding portion1100, the lower side protruding portion1101, the left side protruding portion, and the right side protruding portion are provided.

<Configurations of Side Surface Side Protruding Portions>

The detailed configurations of the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the right side surface cover protruding portion1016will be described with reference toFIGS.8to10.FIG.8is a right side view of the imaging apparatus1000.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of the imaging apparatus1000and is an A-A cross-sectional view inFIG.8.FIG.10is a diagram illustrating the state where the right side surface of the imaging apparatus1000is placed down.

As illustrated inFIG.9, inside the imaging apparatus1000, the image sensor substrate1302to which the image sensor1006is attached by soldering, the main substrate1401, and the card substrate1502are placed perpendicular to the optical axis1706in this order. Between the main substrate1401and the image sensor holding plate1303placed on the back side of the image sensor substrate1302and holding the image sensor1006, the ventilation duct unit1406formed by the heat sink1402and the heat dissipation plate1403is placed.

The air intake portion1407of the ventilation duct unit1406in which the fans1404are placed is connected to the air intake ports1032of the imaging apparatus1000, and the air exhaust portion1408of the ventilation duct unit1406is connected to the air exhaust ports1017of the imaging apparatus1000. Cool air is drawn in from the air intake ports1032by the rotation of the fans1404, the air flows in the direction of an arrow B along the heat dissipation fins1405(seeFIG.3) in the ventilation duct unit1406, and hot air resulting from heat exchange inside the ventilation duct unit1406is exhausted from the air exhaust ports1017.

The left side surface cover protruding portion1031is placed at a position protruding further by a height H1 than the left side surface cover first surface1030a, which is the main surface of the left side surface cover1030. The right side surface cover protruding portion1016is placed at a position protruding further by a height H2 than the right side surface cover first surface1015a, which is the main surface of the right side surface cover1015.

In the left side surface cover protruding portion1031, the air intake ports1032are formed. In the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, the air exhaust ports1017are formed. That is, the air intake ports1032are placed at a position protruding further by the height H1 than the left side surface cover first surface1030a. The air exhaust ports1017are placed at a position protruding further by the height H2 than the right side surface cover first surface1015a.

With such placement, in a case where the left side surface of the imaging apparatus1000is placed down on the ground, the ridge line of the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the ridge line of the surface of the left side surface cover first surface1030acontact the ground. In a case where the right side surface of the imaging apparatus1000is placed down on the ground, the ridge line of the right side surface cover protruding portion1016and the ridge line of the surface of the right side surface cover first surface1015acontact the ground. Thus, the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017are not closed by the ground. Thus, it is possible to prevent a breakdown due to a rise in the temperature inside the imaging apparatus1000resulting from a decrease in the heat exhaust efficiency of the imaging apparatus1000.

A one-dot chain line C illustrated inFIG.9indicates the center positions in the longitudinal direction of the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017. A two-dot chain line G indicates the position of the center of gravity in the longitudinal direction of the imaging apparatus1000. The center positions of the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017in the longitudinal direction (the optical axis direction) of the imaging apparatus1000are positions away by a distance L1from the position of the center of gravity in the longitudinal direction of the imaging apparatus1000.

The one-dot chain line C and the two-dot chain line G are orthogonal to the optical axis1706. That is, the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017are placed at the same positions on the left and right with respect to the longitudinal direction of the imaging apparatus1000. Thus, air flows in a straight line in the ventilation duct unit1406, and ventilation resistance is not reduced. This does not decrease the heat exhaust efficiency.

As described above, the center positions of the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017in the longitudinal direction of the imaging apparatus1000are shifted from the position of the center of gravity in the longitudinal direction of the imaging apparatus1000, whereby, in a case where the imaging apparatus1000is placed on the ground, it is possible to certainly prevent the air intake ports1032and the air exhaust ports1017from being closed.

As illustrated inFIG.9, inside the left side surface cover protruding portion1031, a first internal space1033is formed. In the first internal space1033, the fans1404are placed protruding further outward than the left side surface cover first surface1030a.

Similarly, inside the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, a second internal space1018is formed. In the second internal space1018, the heat sink1402and the heat dissipation plate1403of the ventilation duct unit1406are placed protruding further outward than the right side surface cover first surface1015a.

As described above, heat dissipation structure components are placed in the first internal space1033and the second internal space1018formed by the protrusion of the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, whereby it is possible to improve the heat dissipation efficiency by enlarging the region of a heat dissipation portion.

Regions protruding outside the main body are only the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, whereby it is possible to minimize the protruding outline of the imaging apparatus1000. Thus, it is possible to contribute to the downsizing of the imaging apparatus1000.

In the first internal space1033and the second internal space1018formed by the protrusion of the left side surface cover protruding portion1031and the right side surface cover protruding portion1016, sealing members for more tightly sealing the ventilation duct unit1406and the exterior may be placed. Alternatively, a dustproof filter that prevents dust from being drawn into the ventilation duct unit1406may be placed.

As illustrated inFIGS.1and8, near the air exhaust ports1017in the right side surface cover protruding portion1016of the imaging apparatus1000, the REC button1010and the microphone unit1012are placed. Since the air exhaust ports1017protrude further by the height H2 than the right side surface cover first surface1015a, the REC button1010and the microphone unit1012are placed at positions lower by the height H2 than the air exhaust ports1017.

Thus, even in a case where the right side surface of the imaging apparatus1000is placed down on the ground as illustrated inFIG.10, it is possible to certainly record voice without closing the microphone unit1012. Even in a case where the right side surface of the imaging apparatus1000is placed down on the ground, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation when the imaging apparatus1000is placed on the ground by the REC button1010coming into contact with the ground. Instead of the microphone unit1012, a loudspeaker may be provided. Instead of the REC button1010, various other operation switches may be provided.

A second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference toFIGS.11to14.FIG.11is a front perspective view of an imaging apparatus according to the second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.FIG.12is a rear perspective view of the imaging apparatus.FIG.14is a diagram illustrating the state where the right side surface of an imaging apparatus2000is placed down. The imaging apparatus2000according to the present exemplary embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the imaging apparatus1000described with reference toFIGS.1and2, except that the imaging apparatus2000includes a second protruding portion on each of the left and right side surfaces of the imaging apparatus2000. Thus, similar portions are not described in detail.

As illustrated inFIGS.11and12, a left side surface cover2030of the imaging apparatus2000includes a left side surface cover protruding portion2031and a second left side surface cover protruding portion2033protruding further than a left side surface cover first surface2030a, which is a main surface of the left side surface cover2030. In the left side surface cover protruding portion2031, a plurality of air intake ports2032is formed that draws low-temperature air from outside the imaging apparatus2000into the imaging apparatus2000by the driving of the fans1404(FIG.4) placed inside the imaging apparatus2000.

A right side surface cover2015of the imaging apparatus2000includes a right side surface cover protruding portion2016and a second right side surface cover protruding portion2019protruding further than a right side surface cover first surface2015a, which is a main surface of the right side surface cover2015. In the right side surface cover protruding portion2016, a plurality of air exhaust ports2017is formed that exhausts hot air generated inside the imaging apparatus2000to outside the imaging apparatus2000by the driving of the fans1404(FIG.4) placed inside the imaging apparatus2000.

FIG.13is a top view of the imaging apparatus2000. The left side surface cover protruding portion2031is placed at a position protruding further by a height H1 than the left side surface cover first surface2030a, which is the main surface of the left side surface cover2030. The right side surface cover protruding portion2016is placed at a position protruding further by a height H2 than the right side surface cover first surface2015a, which is the main surface of the right side surface cover2015.

In the left side surface cover protruding portion2031, the air intake ports2032are formed. In the right side surface cover protruding portion2016, the air exhaust ports2017are formed. That is, the air intake ports2032are placed at a position protruding further by the height H1 than the left side surface cover first surface2030a. The air exhaust ports2017are placed at a position protruding further by the height H2 than the right side surface cover first surface2015a.

The second left side surface cover protruding portion2033is placed at a position protruding further by a height H3 than the left side surface cover first surface2030a. The second right side surface cover protruding portion2019is placed at a position protruding further by a height H4 than the right side surface cover first surface2015a.

The protrusion height H3 of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033is different from the protrusion height H1 of the left side surface cover protruding portion2031. The protrusion height H4 of the second right side surface cover protruding portion2019is different from the protrusion height H2 of the right side surface cover protruding portion2016. In the present exemplary embodiment, the height H3 is smaller than the height H1, and the height H4 is smaller than the height H2. Alternatively, the height H3 may be greater than the height H1, and the height H4 may be greater than the height H2.

Even in a case where the right side surface of the imaging apparatus2000is placed down on the ground as illustrated inFIG.14, the ridge line of the right side surface cover protruding portion2016and the ridge line of the second right side surface cover protruding portion2019contact the ground. Even in a case where the left side surface of the imaging apparatus2000is placed down on the ground, the ridge line of the left side surface cover protruding portion2031and the ridge line of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033contact the ground. Thus, the air intake ports2032and the air exhaust ports2017are not closed by being in contact with the ground. Thus, it is possible to prevent a breakdown due to a rise in the temperature inside the imaging apparatus2000resulting from a decrease in the heat exhaust efficiency of the imaging apparatus2000.

Inside the second right side surface cover protruding portion2019illustrated inFIG.11or the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033illustrated inFIG.12, a wireless LAN antenna based on Wi-Fi (registered trademark) may be placed. In this case, the second right side surface cover protruding portion2019or the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033is made of a resin material (e.g., a polycarbonate resin) that does not block an electromagnetic wave. The second left side surface cover protruding portion2033protrudes further than the left side surface cover first surface2030a, and therefore, an electromagnetic wave is not blocked in the periphery of the antenna. Thus, this placement improves the communication performance of the antenna.

As another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS.19A and19B, a configuration may be employed in which a wireless LAN antenna is attached to an antenna attachment connector2033alocated at either of the top surface side and the bottom surface side of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033, or wireless LAN antennas are attached to antenna attachment connectors2033alocated on both the top surface side and the bottom surface side of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033.

FIGS.20A and20Bare diagrams illustrating the state where an antenna2033bis attached to the antenna attachment connector2033aprovided on the top surface side of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033.FIGS.21A and21Care diagrams illustrating the state where an antenna2033cis attached to the antenna attachment connector2033aprovided on the bottom surface side of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033. Further,FIGS.22A and22Bare diagrams illustrating the state where the two antennas2033band2033care attached to the antenna attachment connectors2033aprovided on the top surface side and the bottom surface side of the second left side surface cover protruding portion2033.

As illustrated inFIGS.20to22, in the state where the antennas2033band2033care attached to the connectors2033a, the antennas2033band2033ccan be bent at any angles in the range of up to 180 degrees in the vertical direction and the lateral direction, for example, and the directions of the antennas2033band2033ccan be freely changed. In a case where antennas are attached to both the top surface side and the bottom surface side, the directions of the respective antennas are varied, whereby it is possible to enhance the communication performance of the antennas and perform communication with high receiving sensitivity.

Embodiment(s) of the present disclosure can also be realized by a computer of a system or apparatus that reads out and executes computer executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be referred to more fully as a ‘non-transitory computer-readable storage medium’) to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s) and/or that includes one or more circuits (e.g., application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) for performing the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s), and by a method performed by the computer of the system or apparatus by, for example, reading out and executing the computer executable instructions from the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s) and/or controlling the one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s). The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., central processing unit (CPU), micro processing unit (MPU)) and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors to read out and execute the computer executable instructions. The computer executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or the storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, one or more of a hard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a storage of distributed computing systems, an optical disk (such as a compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), or Blu-ray Disc (BD)™), a flash memory device, a memory card, and the like.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. 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.

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Applications No. 2020-011248, filed Jan. 27, 2020, and No. 2020-054577, filed Mar. 25, 2020, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.