Camera system, interchangeable lens, camera, and power supply method of camera system

Abstract

Provided are a camera system, an interchangeable lens, a camera, and a power supply method of a camera system capable of simplifying a configuration. In a camera system (1) comprising a camera (10) and an interchangeable lens (100), a plurality of pieces of lens-drive power (VL1 to VL3) having different voltages are supplied from the camera (10) to the interchangeable lens (100). The interchangeable lens (100) drives a plurality of optical member drive units such as a focus drive unit and a stop drive unit using the plurality of supplied pieces of lens-drive power (VL1 to VL3). Further, system power for operating a lens microcomputer (114) is generated using the lens-drive power (VL1) having the lowest voltage among the plurality of supplied pieces of lens-drive power (VL1 to VL3).

Claims

1. An interchangeable lens, comprising: a lens-side mount configured to be detachably attached to a camera-side mount; a lens-side contact group arranged in the lens-side mount, the lens-side contact group including a plurality of power contacts configured to receive pieces of lens-drive power having voltages different from each other; a plurality of optical member drive units configured to operate at operation voltages corresponding to the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power; a lens control unit configured to operate at an operation voltage lower than a lowest voltage of the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power; and a lens-side system power generation unit configured to generate system power to be supplied to the lens control unit by using the piece of lens-drive power having the lowest voltage.

2. The interchangeable lens according to claim 1, wherein the lens-side system power generation unit generates the system power through a voltage drop caused by a resistor.

3. The interchangeable lens according to claim 2, wherein the lens-side system power generation unit includes a linear regulator.

4. The interchangeable lens according to claim 3, wherein the lens-side system power generation unit includes a low dropout regulator.

5. The interchangeable lens according to claim 1, wherein: the lens-side mount is rotated in an attaching rotation direction to be attached to the camera-side mount; the lens-side contact group further includes a ground contact; and in the lens-side contact group, the power contacts and the ground contact are disposed adjacent to each other, and the power contacts are disposed, with respect to the attaching rotation direction, in front of the ground contact and in an ascending order of the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power to receive.

6. The interchangeable lens according to claim 5, wherein: the lens-side contact group further includes a lens detection contact; and in the lens-side contact group, the lens detection contact is disposed in front of the power contacts with respect to the attaching rotation direction.

7. The interchangeable lens according to claim 5, further comprising a pull-up resistor connected to a first one of the contacts of the lens-side contact group excluding the power contacts and the ground contact, the pull-up resistor being configured to pull the first one of the contacts up to potential of the system power generated by the lens-side system power generation unit.

8. The interchangeable lens according to claim 7, further comprising a pull-down resistor connected to a second one of the contacts of the lens-side contact group excluding the power contacts, the ground contact and the first one of the contacts, the pull-down resistor being configured to pull the second one of the contacts down to potential of the ground contact.

9. The interchangeable lens according to claim 1, wherein: the lens-side mount is rotated in an attaching rotation direction to be attached to the camera-side mount; the lens-side contact group further includes a plurality of ground contacts; and in the lens-side contact group, the power contacts and the ground contacts are disposed adjacent to each other, and the power contacts are disposed, with respect to the attaching rotation direction, in front of the ground contacts and in an ascending order of the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power to receive.

10. An interchangeable lens, comprising: a lens-side mount configured to be detachably attached to a camera-side mount; a lens-side contact group arranged in the lens-side mount, the lens-side contact group including a plurality of power contacts and a communication contact, the power contacts being configured to receive pieces of lens-drive power having voltages different from each other; at least one optical member drive unit configured to operate by at least one of the pieces of lens-drive power; a lens control unit configured to operate at an operation voltage lower than a lowest voltage of the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power; and a lens-side system power generation unit configured to generate system power to be supplied to the lens control unit by using the piece of lens-drive power having the lowest voltage, wherein when the lens-side mount is attached to the camera-side mount, the lens control unit transmits, to a camera side through the communication contact, first information to be used at the camera side to determine the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power which the interchangeable lens requires.

11. The interchangeable lens according to claim 10, wherein when the lens-side mount is attached to the camera-side mount, the lens control unit transmits lens information including the first information to the camera side through the communication contact.

12. The interchangeable lens according to claim 10, wherein the first information identifies the interchangeable lens.

13. The interchangeable lens according to claim 12, wherein the first information indicates a model name of the interchangeable lens.

14. The interchangeable lens according to claim 10, wherein the first information represents the voltages of the pieces of lens-drive power which the interchangeable lens requires.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a lens-interchangeable camera system.

(2) FIG. 2 is a front view of a camera.

(3) FIG. 3 is a back view of an interchangeable lens.

(4) FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the camera.

(5) FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of a power source unit.

(6) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by a camera microcomputer.

(7) FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the interchangeable lens.

(8) FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by a lens microcomputer.

(9) FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an electric connection between the camera and the interchangeable lens.

(10) FIG. 10 is a system configuration diagram according to a second embodiment of the lens-interchangeable camera system.

(11) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an electric configuration of an accessory.

(12) FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by an accessory microcomputer.

(13) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a mutual electric connection in a case where the accessory is attached between the camera and the interchangeable lens.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(14) Hereinafter, preferable embodiments for implementing the invention will be described with reference to accompanying drawings.

First Embodiment

(15) [Configuration of Camera System]

(16) A lens-interchangeable camera system is configured to comprise at least one camera and at least one interchangeable lens.

(17) FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of the lens-interchangeable camera system.

(18) A camera system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of one camera 10 and a plurality of interchangeable lenses 100.

(19) The camera 10 is composed of a digital camera. In particular, the camera 10 of the embodiment is composed of a non-reflex digital camera. The non-reflex digital camera refers to a digital camera having no reflex mirror for guiding incident light from a lens to an optical finder. The non-reflex digital camera is also referred to as a mirrorless digital camera.

(20) Each of the plurality of interchangeable lenses 100 comprises a common lens-side mount 104. Each interchangeable lens 100 has a different focal length.

(21) <<Camera>>

(22) FIG. 2 is a front view of a camera.

(23) The camera 10 comprises the camera-side mount 14 on a front portion of a camera body 12 of the camera. The camera-side mount 14 is an attachment part of the interchangeable lens 100. The camera-side mount 14 is composed of a known bayonet mount. In FIG. 2, a direction indicated by an arrow R (clockwise direction) is a rotation direction of the interchangeable lens 100 in a case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10.

(24) The camera-side mount 14 is provided with a camera-side contact group CCG composed of a plurality of contacts CC1 to CC12. The plurality of contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG are disposed at a constant interval on the circumference of one circle with an imaging optical axis as the center. A function of each of the contacts CC1 to CC12 will be described below.

(25) In FIG. 2, reference numeral 16 is an image sensor, and reference numeral 18 is a shutter. The shutter 18 is composed of a square focal plane shutter and is disposed right before the image sensor 16. FIG. 2 shows a state where the shutter 18 is fully opened.

(26) <<Interchangeable Lens>>

(27) FIG. 3 is a back view of the interchangeable lens and a view of the interchangeable lens viewed from a mount side.

(28) The interchangeable lens 100 comprises the lens-side mount 104 on the base end portion of a lens barrel 102 of the interchangeable lens 100. The lens-side mount 104 is composed of a bayonet mount corresponding to the camera-side mount 14 provided in the camera 10. In FIG. 3, a direction indicated by an arrow R (counterclockwise direction) is the rotation direction of the interchangeable lens 100 in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10 (rotation direction of lens-side mount 104 in case where lens-side mount 104 is attached to camera-side mount 14).

(29) The lens-side mount 104 is provided with a lens-side contact group LCG composed of a plurality of contacts LC1 to LC12. The lens-side contact group LCG is provided corresponding to the camera-side contact group CCG. Therefore, the lens-side contact group LCG is configured to have the same number of contacts as the contacts constituting the camera-side contact group CCG, and each of the contacts LC1 to LC12 is disposed at the same interval as the contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG.

(30) In the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, each of the contacts LC1 to LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the corresponding contacts CC1 to CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG. That is, the first contact LC1 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the first contact CC1 of the camera-side contact group CCG, the second contact LC2 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the second contact CC2 of the camera-side contact group CCG, . . . , and the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(31) A function of each of the contacts LC1 to LC12 constituting the lens-side contact group LCG will be described below.

(32) <<Electric Configuration of Camera>

(33) FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the camera.

(34) As shown in FIG. 4, the camera 10 comprises an image sensor 16, a shutter 18, an image sensor drive unit 20, a shutter drive unit 22, an analog signal processing section 24, a display unit 26, an image data storage unit 28, a camera operation unit 30, a power source unit 32, and a camera microcomputer 34.

(35) <Image Sensor>

(36) The image sensor 16 converts an optical image of a subject formed through the interchangeable lens into an electric signal and outputs the converted signal. A known image sensor such as a charged coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor is used as the image sensor 16.

(37) <Image Sensor Drive Unit>

(38) The image sensor drive unit 20 is composed of a drive circuit of the image sensor 16.

(39) The image sensor drive unit 20 drives the image sensor 16 in response to an instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(40) <Shutter>

(41) The shutter 18 is an optical path opening and closing apparatus that adjusts an exposure time to the image sensor 16. As described above, the shutter 18 is composed of the square focal plane shutter and is disposed right before the image sensor 16.

(42) <Shutter Drive Unit>

(43) The shutter drive unit 22 is composed of a drive circuit that drives a charging motor, an electromagnetic, or the like provided in the shutter 18. The shutter drive unit 22 drives the charging motor, the electromagnetic, or the like in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(44) <Analog Signal Processing Section>

(45) The analog signal processing section 24 takes in an analog image signal output from the image sensor 16, performs predetermined signal processing (for example, correlative double sampling processing, amplifying processing, or the like), and then converts the analog image signal into a digital image signal and outputs the digital image signal.

(46) <Display Unit>

(47) The display unit 26 is composed of a monitor and a drive circuit of the monitor. The monitor is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and is provided on a back surface of the camera body.

(48) <Image Data Storage Unit>

(49) The image data storage unit 28 is a storage unit of captured image data. The image data storage unit 28 comprises a memory card and a socket for attaching the memory card. Reading and writing of the image data with respect to the memory card are controlled by the camera microcomputer 34.

(50) <Camera Operation Unit>

(51) The camera operation unit 30 is an operation unit of the camera 10 and is composed of various operation buttons and a circuit that detects operation of the operation buttons and outputs operation signals to the camera microcomputer 34. The operation buttons provided in the camera 10 include a power button, a release button, and the like.

(52) <Power Supply Unit>

(53) The power source unit 32 generates and supplies pieces of power required for operations of the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 under the control of the camera microcomputer 34.

(54) FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the power source unit.

(55) As shown in FIG. 5, the power source unit 32 comprises a battery 40, a power supply unit 42, and a lens-drive power switch unit 44.

(56) The battery 40 is power of the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. The battery 40 is attachably and detachably mounted on a battery chamber (not shown) provided in the camera body.

(57) The power supply unit 42 generates various pieces of power required for the operations of the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 from the battery 40 and supplies the pieces of power to each unit under the control of the camera microcomputer 34. The power supply unit 42 is composed of, for example, a DC-DC converter (DC: direct current).

(58) In the camera 10 of the embodiment, a plurality of pieces of lens-drive power having different voltages are generated as the power supplied to the interchangeable lens 100. In the camera 10 of the embodiment, first lens-drive power LV1 having the voltage of +5 V, second lens-drive power LV2 having the voltage of +6.5 V, and third lens-drive power LV3 having the voltage of +10 V are generated.

(59) As described below, the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage is supplied to the second contact CC2 of the camera-side contact group CCG. The second lens-drive power LV2 is supplied to the third contact CC3 of the camera-side contact group CCG. The third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage is supplied to the fourth contact CC4 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(60) The lens-drive power switch unit 44 individually turns on and off the supplying of the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 to be supplied from the power supply unit 42 in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34. Accordingly, it is possible to individually turn on and off the supplying of the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 to be supplied from the power supply unit 42 to the plurality of contacts CC2, CC3, and CC4 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(61) <Camera Microcomputer>

(62) The camera microcomputer 34 is an example of a camera control unit. The camera microcomputer 34 integrally controls the operation of the camera 10. The camera microcomputer 34 comprises a central processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), and a random access memory (RAM/memory capable of writing and reading data), and executes a prescribed program to provide various functions. The ROM stores various pieces of data and the like required for the control in addition to various programs executed by the CPU.

(63) FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by the camera microcomputer.

(64) As shown in FIG. 6, the camera microcomputer 34 executes the prescribed program to function as a digital signal processing section 50, a display control unit 52, a recording control unit 54, a power control unit 56, a lens-drive power switch control unit 58, a lens attachment detection unit 60, a camera communication unit 62, and the like.

(65) The digital signal processing section 50 takes in the digital image signal output from the analog signal processing section 24 and performs predetermined signal processing to generate the image data.

(66) The display control unit 52 displays predetermined information on the monitor provided in the display unit 26. For example, in a case where a playback mode is set, an image read from the memory card is displayed on the monitor. Further, in a case where an imaging mode is set, an image captured by the image sensor 16 is displayed in real time. Furthermore, in a case where various settings are performed, a setting screen is displayed on the monitor.

(67) The recording control unit 54 performs the reading and writing of the image data with respect to the memory card attached to the socket of the image data storage unit 28.

(68) The power control unit 56 controls the power supply unit 42 to control the supplying of the power to each unit.

(69) The lens-drive power switch control unit 58 controls the lens-drive power switch unit 44 to control the supplying of the lens-drive power. Specifically, the lens-drive power switch control unit 58 individually turns on and off the supplying of the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 to be supplied from the power supply unit 42 to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) of the camera-side contact group CCG to control the supplying of the lens-drive power. Accordingly, it is possible to selectively supply the lens-drive power.

(70) The lens attachment detection unit 60 detects the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100. The lens attachment detection unit 60 detects a polarity of a lens detection port CP0 provided in a camera microcomputer input and output port 64 to determine the presence or absence of the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100.

(71) The camera communication unit 62 communicates with the interchangeable lens 100 attached to the camera 10. The communication is performed through the camera microcomputer input and output port 64. The camera microcomputer input and output port 64 is provided with a plurality of communication ports CP1 to CP7 for communicating with the interchangeable lens 100.

(72) Here, the first communication port CP1 is a communication port for notifying the camera 10 of a state from the interchangeable lens 100. In particular, the first communication port CP1 is used for giving a notification that a specific function of the interchangeable lens 100 is in an operation period in the camera system 1 of the embodiment.

(73) The second communication port CP2 is a communication port for transmitting a vertical synchronizing (VSYNC) signal from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(74) The third communication port CP3, the fourth communication port CP4, and the fifth communication port CP5 are communication ports for performing serial communication (three-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100. That is, the third communication port CP3, the fourth communication port CP4, and the fifth communication port CP5 are the communication ports constituting a serial peripheral interface (SPI) which is a synchronous serial communication interface by three lines.

(75) The third communication port CP3 is a communication port (master out slave in (MOS1) port) for transmitting a signal from the camera 10 as an SPI master to the interchangeable lens 100 as an SPI slave.

(76) Further, the fourth communication port CP4 is a communication port (serial clock (SCK) port) for transmitting a clock signal for synchronization from the camera 10 as the SPI master to the interchangeable lens 100 as the SPI slave.

(77) Further, the fifth communication port CP5 is a communication port (master in slave out (MISO) port) for transmitting a signal from the interchangeable lens 100 as an SPI slave to the camera 10 as an SPI master.

(78) The sixth communication port CP6 is also a communication port for performing serial communication (single-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100. In particular, in the camera system 1 of the embodiment, the sixth communication port CP6 functions as a received exchange data (RXD/data reception) port and is used as a communication port for receiving a signal transmitted from the interchangeable lens 100.

(79) The seventh communication port CP7 is a communication port for notifying the camera 10 of the state from the interchangeable lens 100.

(80) Further, the communication with the interchangeable lens 100 and an electric connection with the interchangeable lens 100 through the mount will be described below in detail.

(81) <<Electric Configuration of Interchangeable Lens>>

(82) FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the interchangeable lens. FIG. 7 shows the electric configuration of the interchangeable lens comprising an auto focus (AF) mechanism, a camera shake correction mechanism, and the stop. Each interchangeable lens 100 comprises at least the AF mechanism and the stop, but there are interchangeable lenses not comprising the camera shake correction mechanisms.

(83) As shown in FIG. 7, the interchangeable lens 100 comprises a lens drive unit 110, a lens-side system power generation unit 112, and a lens microcomputer 114.

(84) <Lens Drive Unit>

(85) The lens drive unit 110 drives optical members constituting the interchangeable lens 100 in response to an instruction from the lens microcomputer 114.

(86) As described above, the interchangeable lens 100 shown in FIG. 7 comprises the AF function, the camera shake correction function, and the stop. Therefore, the interchangeable lens 100 of this example is provided with a focus drive unit 110A, a camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B, and a stop drive unit 110C as the lens drive unit 110.

(87) The focus drive unit 110A is an example of an optical member drive unit and drives a focus lens 106A which is the optical member for focusing. The focus drive unit 110A is configured to comprise a focus motor (for example, ultrasonic motor) for driving the focus lens and a drive circuit of the focus motor. The focus drive unit 110A drives the focus motor in response to the instruction from the lens microcomputer 114 to operate the focus lens 106A.

(88) The camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B is an example of the optical member drive unit and drives a camera shake correction lens 106B which is an optical member for camera shake correction. The camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 101B is configured to comprise a camera shake correction motor (for example, voice coil motor) for driving a camera shake correction lens and a drive circuit thereof. The camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B drives the camera shake correction motor in response to an instruction from the lens microcomputer 114 to operate the camera shake correction lens 106B.

(89) The stop drive unit 110C is an example of the optical member drive unit and drives the stop which is the optical member for light amount adjustment. The stop drive unit 110C is configured to comprise the stop motor for driving a stop 106C and a drive circuit of the stop motor. The stop drive unit 110C drives the stop motor in response to the instruction from the lens microcomputer 114 to operate the stop 106C.

(90) As described below, the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V), LV2 (+6.5 V), and LV3 (+10 V) having different voltages are supplied from a plurality of contacts LC2 to LC4 (power contacts) of the lens-side contact group LCG to the lens drive unit 110. Any of the plurality of supplied pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 is supplied to each drive unit of the lens drive unit 110. For example, the third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage is supplied to the focus drive unit 110A, and the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage is supplied to the stop drive unit 10C. Further, the second lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage is supplied to the camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B.

(91) <Lens-Side System Power Generation Unit>

(92) The lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates system power for operating the lens microcomputer 114. The lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates the system power by using the lens-drive power to be supplied from the camera 10.

(93) Here, the lens microcomputer 114 is configured to operate at a voltage lower than each drive unit constituting the lens drive unit 110. For example, the lens microcomputer 114 is configured to operate at +3.3 V.

(94) The lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates the system power (+3.3 V) using the lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage among the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1 to LV3 to be supplied from the camera 10, and supplies the generated system power to the lens microcomputer 114. In this case, the lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates the system power by a voltage drop caused by a resistor. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of noise accompanied by the generation of the system power.

(95) An LDO regulator may be exemplified as an apparatus that generates the system power by the voltage drop caused by the resistor. The LDO regulator is one of a linear regulator and converts an input voltage into a desired output voltage by consuming input power using on-resistance of a switching element such as a power MOSFET or power transistor.

(96) <Lens Microcomputer>

(97) The lens microcomputer 114 is an example of a lens control unit. The lens microcomputer 114 controls the operation of the interchangeable lens 100 based on the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(98) The lens microcomputer 114 comprises a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, and executes a prescribed program to provide various functions. The ROM stores various pieces of data and the like required for the control in addition to various programs executed by the CPU.

(99) FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by the lens microcomputer.

(100) As shown in FIG. 8, the lens microcomputer 114 executes the prescribed program to function as a focus drive control unit 120, a camera shake correction mechanism drive control unit 122, a stop drive control unit 124, a lens communication unit 126, and the like.

(101) The focus drive control unit 120 controls the focus drive unit 110A in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34 to operate the focus lens 106A.

(102) The camera shake correction mechanism drive control unit 122 controls the camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34 to operate the camera shake correction lens 106B.

(103) The stop drive control unit 124 controls the stop drive unit 110C in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34 to operate the stop 106C.

(104) The lens communication unit 126 communicates with the camera 10 to which the interchangeable lens 100 is attached. The communication is performed through a lens microcomputer input and output port 128. The lens microcomputer input and output port 128 is provided with a plurality of communication ports LP1 to LP7 for communicating with the interchangeable lens 100. The communication ports LP1 to LP7 are provided corresponding to the plurality of communication ports CP1 to CP7 provided in the camera microcomputer input and output port 64 of the camera microcomputer 34.

(105) Therefore, the first communication port LP1 is used for giving a notification the state of the camera 10, and the second communication port LP2 is used for receiving the VSYNC signal transmitted from the camera 10.

(106) Further, the third communication port LP3, the fourth communication port LP4, and the fifth communication port LP5 are used for the serial communication (three-line serial communication) with the camera 10.

(107) Further, the sixth communication port LP6 is used for the serial communication (single-line serial communication) with the camera and is used as a transmit exchange data (TXD/data transmission) port. That is, the sixth communication port LP6 is used as a communication port for transmitting the signal to the camera 10.

(108) Further, the seventh communication port LP7 is used for notifying the camera 10 of the state.

(109) The communication with the camera 10 and the electric connection to the camera 10 through the mount will be described below in detail.

(110) <<Electric Connection between Camera and Interchangeable Lens>>

(111) FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an electric connection between the camera and the interchangeable lens.

(112) As shown in FIG. 9, the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 are electrically connected through the camera-side contact group CCG provided in the camera-side mount 14 and the lens-side contact group LCG provided in the lens-side mount 104.

(113) In FIG. 9, a direction indicated by an arrow R is the rotation direction of the interchangeable lens 100 in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens-side contact group LCG moves in the direction indicated by the arrow R in FIG. 9 with respect to the camera-side contact group CCG.

(114) <Camera-Side Contact Group>

(115) The camera-side contact group CCG is composed of the twelve contacts CC1 to CC12. Each of the contacts CC1 to CC12 has the same shape and is disposed at a constant interval on the same circumference.

(116) (A) First Contact CC1

(117) The first contact CC1 is a lens detection contact for detecting the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100. The first contact CC1 is connected to the lens detection port CP0 of the camera microcomputer 34. Further, the first contact CC1 is connected to the power supply unit 42 (refer to FIG. 5) through a pull-up resistor CR1 and is pulled up to predetermined potential (for example, +3.3 V).

(118) (B) Second Contact CC2 to Fourth Contact CC4

(119) The second contact CC2, the third contact CC3, and the fourth contact CC4 are a plurality of power contacts for supplying the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(120) Here, the second contact CC2 is a first power contact for supplying the first lens-drive power LV1 to the interchangeable lens. The second contact CC2 is connected to the power supply unit 42 through the lens-drive power switch unit 44 (refer to FIG. 5). The first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage from the power supply unit 42 is supplied to the second contact CC2. The lens-drive power switch unit 44 turns on and off the supplying of the first lens-drive power LV1 to the second contact CC2 in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(121) Further, the third contact CC3 is a second power contact for supplying the second lens-drive power LV2 to the interchangeable lens. The third contact CC3 is connected to the power supply unit 42 through the lens-drive power switch unit 44 (refer to FIG. 5). The second lens-drive power LV2 is supplied from the power supply unit 42 to the third contact CC3. The lens-drive power switch unit 44 turns on and off the supplying of the second lens-drive power LV2 to the third contact CC3 in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(122) Further, the fourth contact CC4 is a third power contact for supplying the third lens-drive power LV3 to the interchangeable lens. The fourth contact CC4 is connected to the power supply unit 42 through the lens-drive power switch unit 44 (refer to FIG. 5). The third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage from the power supply unit 42 is supplied to the fourth contact CC4. The lens-drive power switch unit 44 turns on and off the supplying of the third lens-drive power LV3 to the fourth contact CC4 in response to the instruction from the camera microcomputer 34.

(123) (C) Fifth Contact CC5 and Sixth Contact CC6

(124) The fifth contact CC5 and the sixth contact CC6 are respectively ground contacts and are both grounded.

(125) (D) Seventh Contact CC7 to Twelfth Contact CC12

(126) The seventh contact CC7 to the twelfth contact CC12 are communication contacts for communicating with the interchangeable lens 100.

(127) Here, the seventh contact CC7 is the communication contact for giving a notification of the state from the interchangeable lens 10 to the camera 10. The seventh contact CC7 is connected to the first communication port CP1 of the camera microcomputer 34. As described above, the first communication port CP1 of the camera microcomputer 34 is used for giving a notification that the specific function of the interchangeable lens 100 is in the operation period.

(128) The eighth contact CC8 is a communication contact for transmitting the VSYNC signal from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. The eighth contact CC8 is connected to the second communication port CP2 of the camera microcomputer 34.

(129) The ninth contact CC9, the tenth contact CC10, and the eleventh contact CC11 are communication contacts for respectively performing the serial communication (three-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100. The ninth contact CC9 is connected to the third communication port CP3 (MOS1 port) of the camera microcomputer 34. The tenth contact CC10 is connected to the fourth communication port CP4 (SCK port) of the camera microcomputer 34. The eleventh contact CC11 is connected to the fifth communication port CP5 (MISO port) of the camera microcomputer 34.

(130) The twelfth contact CC12 is a contact for performing the serial communication (single-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100. Further, the twelfth contact CC12 is a contact for notifying the camera 10 of the state from the interchangeable lens 100. The twelfth contact CC12 is connected to the sixth communication port CP6 and the seventh communication port CP7 of the camera microcomputer 34.

(131) The plurality of contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG are disposed in an order of the first contact CC1, the second contact CC2, . . . , the eleventh contact CC11, and the twelfth contact CC2 with respect to the rotation direction R of the interchangeable lens 100 in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10. Therefore, the camera-side contact group CCG is disposed in the order of the lens detection contact (first contact CC1), the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2 to fourth contact CC4), the plurality of ground contacts (fifth contact CC5 and sixth contact CC6), and the plurality of communication contacts (seventh contact CC7 to twelfth contact CC12).

(132) <Lens-Side Contact Group>

(133) The lens-side contact group LCG corresponds to the camera-side contact group CCG. Therefore, the lens-side contact group LCG is configured to have the same number of contacts as the contacts constituting the camera-side contact group CCG, and each of the contacts LC1 to LC12 is disposed at the same interval as the contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG.

(134) (A) First Contact LC11

(135) The first contact LC1 is a lens detection contact corresponding to the lens detection contact (first contact CC) on the camera side. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the first contact LC1 is connected to the first contact CC1 on the camera side. The first contact LC1 is grounded through a pull-down resistor LR1 and is pulled down to ground potential.

(136) (B) Second Contact LC2, Third Contact LC3, and Fourth Contact LC4

(137) The second contact LC2, the third contact LC3, and the fourth contact LC4 are the plurality of power contacts corresponding to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) on the camera side. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the second contact LC2 is connected to the second contact CC2 on the camera side and the third contact LC3 is connected to the third contact CC3 on the camera side. Further, the fourth contact LC4 is connected to the fourth contact CC4 on the camera side.

(138) As described above, the second contact CC2 on the camera side is the first power contact for supplying the first lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage is supplied to the second contact LC2.

(139) The lens-side system power generation unit 112 is connected to the second contact LC2 in the interchangeable lens. The lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates the system power (+3.3 V) using the first lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) to be supplied from the second contact LC2 and supplies the generated system power to the lens microcomputer 114.

(140) Further, the third contact CC3 on the camera side is the second power contact for supplying the second lens-drive power LV2 (+6.5 V). Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the second lens-drive power LV2 is supplied to the third contact LC3.

(141) Further, the fourth contact CC4 on the camera side is the third power contact for supplying the lens-drive power LV3 (+10 V) having the highest voltage. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage is supplied to the fourth contact CC4 on the camera side.

(142) (C) Fifth Contact LC5 and Sixth Contact LC6

(143) The fifth contact LC5 and the sixth contact LC6 are two ground contacts respectively corresponding to the two ground contacts (fifth contact CC5 and sixth contact CC6) on the camera side. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the fifth contact LC5 is connected to the fifth contact CC5 on the camera side, and the sixth contact LC6 is connected to the sixth contact CC6 on the camera side.

(144) (D) Seventh Contact LC7 to Twelfth Contact LC12

(145) The seventh contact LC7 to the twelfth contact LC12 are the plurality of communication contacts corresponding to the plurality of communication contacts (seventh contact CC7 to twelfth contact CC12) on the camera side. Therefore, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the seventh contact LC7 is connected to the seventh contact CC7 on the camera side, and the eighth contact LC8 is connected to the eighth contact CC8 on the camera side. Further, the ninth contact LC9 is connected to the ninth contact CC9 on the camera side, and the tenth contact LC10 is connected to the tenth contact CC0 on the camera side. Furthermore, the eleventh contact LC11 is connected to the eleventh contact CC11 on the camera side, and the twelfth contact LC12 is connected to the twelfth contact CC12 on the camera side.

(146) As described above, the seventh contact CC7 on the camera side is the communication contact for giving the notification of the state from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10. Therefore, the seventh contact LC7 is also used as the communication contact forgiving the notification of the state from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10. The seventh contact LC7 is connected to the first communication port LP1 of the lens microcomputer 114.

(147) Further, the eighth contact CC8 on the camera side is a communication contact for transmitting the VSYNC signal from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100. Therefore, the eighth contact LC8 is used as a communication contact for receiving the VSYNC signal transmitted from the camera-side. The eighth contact LC8 is connected to the second communication port LP2 of the lens microcomputer 114.

(148) Further, the ninth contact CC9, the tenth contact CC10, and the eleventh contact CC11 on the camera side are communication contacts for respectively performing the serial communication (three-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100. Therefore, the ninth contact LC9, the tenth contact LC10, and the eleventh contact LC11 are also used as the communication contacts for performing the serial communication (three-line serial communication) with the camera 10. The ninth contact LC9 is connected to the third communication port LP3 of the lens microcomputer 114. The tenth contact LC10 is connected to the fourth communication port LP4 of the lens microcomputer 114. The eleventh contact LC11 is connected to the fifth communication port LP5 of the lens microcomputer 114.

(149) Further, the twelfth contact CC2 on the camera side is a contact for performing the serial communication (single-line serial communication) with the interchangeable lens 100 and a contact for notifying the camera 10 of the state from the interchangeable lens 100. Therefore, the twelfth contact LC12 is also used as the contact for performing the serial communication (single-line serial communication) with the camera 10 and the contact for notifying the camera 10 of the state. The twelfth contact LC12 is connected to the sixth communication port LP6 and the seventh communication port LP7 of the lens microcomputer 114.

(150) As shown in FIG. 9, the seventh contact LC7, the eighth contact LC8, and the twelfth contact LC12 among the plurality of contacts (seventh contact LC7 to twelfth contact LC12) constituting the communication contact are respectively connected to the lens-side system power generation unit 112 through pull-up resistors LR7, LR8, and LR12, and are pulled up to potential (for example, +3.3 V) of the system power to be supplied from the lens-side system power generation unit 112.

(151) Further, the ninth contact LC9 among the plurality of contacts (seventh contact LC7 to twelfth contact LC12) constituting the communication contact is grounded through a pull-down resistor LR9 and is pulled down to the ground potential.

(152) The plurality of contacts LC1 to LC12 constituting the lens-side contact group LCG are also disposed in the same arrangement as the plurality of contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG. That is, the plurality of contacts LC1 to LC12 are disposed in an order of the first contact LC1, the second contact LC2, . . . the eleventh contact LC11, and the twelfth contact LC12 with respect to the rotation direction R of the interchangeable lens 100 in the case where the interchangeable lens 1 is attached to the camera 10. Therefore, the lens-side contact group LCG is also disposed in the order of the lens detection contact (first contact LC1), the plurality of power contacts (second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4), the plurality of ground contacts (fifth contact LC5 and sixth contact LC6), and the plurality of communication contacts (seventh contact LC7 to twelfth contact LC12).

(153) [Action of Camera System]

(154) <<Attachment of Interchangeable Lens>>

(155) The lens-side mount 104 provided in the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera-side mount 14 provided in the camera 10 to attach the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10. In this case, the interchangeable lens 100 is rotated with respect to the camera 10 for the attachment.

(156) The interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10 to connect the lens-side contact group LCG provided in the lens-side mount 104 to the camera-side contact group CCG provided in the camera-side mount 14.

(157) In the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the lens-side contact group LCG is disposed in an order of the lens detection contact (first contact LC1), the plurality of power contacts (second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4), the plurality of ground contacts (fifth contact LC5 and sixth contact LC6), and the plurality of communication contacts (seventh contact LC7 to twelfth contact LC12) along the rotation direction. Therefore, it is possible for the power contacts (second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4) to touch more contacts of the camera-side contact group CCG. Accordingly, it is possible to improve a self-cleaning effect of the plurality of power contacts (second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4) of the lens-side contact group LCG. As a result, it is possible to reduce touch resistance of the plurality of power contacts (second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4) of the lens-side contact group LCG and thus to efficiently supply the power.

(158) <<Detection of Interchangeable Lens Attachment>>

(159) The camera microcomputer 34 detects the presence or absence of the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100 based on the polarity of the first contact (lens detection contact) CC1 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(160) In a case where the interchangeable lens 100 is not attached, the first contact CC1 on the camera side is pulled up by the pull-up resistor CR1 and thus is at the HIGH level (high potential).

(161) On the other hand, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the first contact (lens detection contact) LC1 on the interchangeable lens side is connected to the first contact CC1 on the camera side as shown in FIG. 9. Since the first contact LC1 on the interchangeable lens side is grounded, in a case where the first contact LC1 on the interchangeable lens side is connected to the first contact CC1 on the camera side, the first contact CC1 on the camera side is at the LOW level (low potential).

(162) The camera microcomputer 34 detects the presence or absence of the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100 based on the polarity (HIGH level or LOW level) of the lens detection port CP0 connected to the first contact CC1 on the camera side. That is, it is determined that the interchangeable lens 100 is not attached in a case where potential of the lens detection port CP0 is at the HIGH level, and it is discriminated that the interchangeable lens 100 is attached in a case where potential of the lens detection port CP0 is at the LOW level to detect the presence or absence of the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100.

(163) The first contact CC1 which is the lens detection contact is disposed at a head of the rotation direction R of the interchangeable lens 100 in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the contact other than the first contact LC1 on the interchangeable lens side from touching the first contact CC1 on the camera side in a case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached and detached. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent erroneous detection.

(164) <<Activation of Lens Microcomputer>>

(165) In a case where the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100 is detected, the camera microcomputer 34 starts the supplying of the lens-drive power to the power supply unit 42. That is, the camera microcomputer 34 controls the power supply unit 42 and the lens-drive power switch unit 44 such that the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are supplied to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) on the camera side. Accordingly, the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are respectively supplied to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) on the camera side.

(166) Further, in a case where the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are supplied to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) on the camera side, the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are supplied to the interchangeable lens 100 through the plurality of power contacts (second contact LC2, third contact LC3, and fourth contact LC4) on the interchangeable lens side connected to the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2, third contact CC3, and fourth contact CC4) on the camera side.

(167) In a case where the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are supplied to the interchangeable lens 100, the system power of the lens microcomputer 114 is generated using one of the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3. The system power of the lens microcomputer 114 is generated by the lens-side system power generation unit 112. The lens-side system power generation unit 112 generates the system power (+3.3 V) using the first lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage among the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 supplied from the camera-side, and supplies the generated system power to the lens microcomputer 114.

(168) In a case where the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer 114, the lens microcomputer 114 is activated.

(169) <<Detection of Normal Supplying of System Power to Lens Microcomputer>>

(170) The camera microcomputer 34 detects that the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer 114 based on the polarity of a specific contact of the camera-side contact group CCG. The specific contact herein refers to a contact to be connected to the contact to which the pull-up resistor is connected on the interchangeable lens side.

(171) On the interchangeable lens-side, the contacts to which the pull-up resistors LR7, LR8, and LR12 are connected are the seventh contact LC7, the eighth contact LC8, and the twelfth contact LC12. The contacts on the camera side to be connected to these contacts are the seventh contact CC7, the eighth contact CC8, and the twelfth contact CC12.

(172) The camera microcomputer 34 discriminates the polarities (HIGH level or LOW level) of the first communication port CP1 to be connected to the seventh contact CC7 of the camera-side contact group CCG, the second communication port CP2 to be connected to the eighth contact CC8 of the camera-side contact group CCG, and the sixth communication port CP6 to be connected to the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG to detect that the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer 114. Specifically, in a case where it is detected that the polarities of the first communication port CP1, the second communication port CP2, and the sixth communication port CP6 are at the HIGH level, it is determined that the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer 114. Accordingly, it is possible to appropriately detect that the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer 114 on the camera side even in the case where the system power of the lens microcomputer 114 is generated on the interchangeable lens side. In particular, more accurate detection is possible by discriminating the polarities of the plurality of contacts as in the camera system 1 of the embodiment.

(173) <<Discrimination whether Interchangeable Lens is Regular Product>>

(174) The camera microcomputer 34 discriminates whether the attached interchangeable lens 100 is a regular interchangeable lens based on the polarities of the specific contacts of the camera-side contact group CCG. The specific contacts herein are the contacts to be connected to the contacts to which the pull-up resistors LR7, LR8, and LR12 are connected, and the contact to which the pull-down resistor LR9 is connected on the interchangeable lens side.

(175) On the interchangeable lens-side, the contacts to which the pull-up resistors LR7, LR8, and LR12 are connected are the seventh contact LC7, the eighth contact LC8, and the twelfth contact LC12. The contacts on the camera side to be connected to these contacts are the seventh contact CC7, the eighth contact CC8, and the twelfth contact CC12.

(176) Further, the contact to which the pull-down resistor LR9 is connected is the ninth contact LC9 on the interchangeable lens side. The contact on the camera side to be connected to this contact is the ninth contact CC9.

(177) The camera microcomputer 34 discriminates the polarities (HIGH level or LOW level) of the first communication port CP1 to be connected to the seventh contact CC7 of the camera-side contact group CCG, the second communication port CP2 to be connected to the eighth contact CC8 of the camera-side contact group CCG, the third communication port CP3 to be connected to the ninth contact CC9 of the camera-side contact group CCG, and the sixth communication port CP6 to be connected to the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG to discriminate whether the attached interchangeable lens 100 is the regular interchangeable lens. Specifically, in a case where the it is detected that polarities of the first communication port CP, the second communication port CP2, and the sixth communication port CP6 are at the HIGH level and the polarity of the third communication port CP3 is at the LOW level, the camera microcomputer 34 discriminates that the attached interchangeable lens 100 is the regular interchangeable lens.

(178) In this manner, it is possible to easily discriminate whether the attached interchangeable lens 100 is the regular interchangeable lens by discriminating the polarities of the specific contacts at the time of attaching the interchangeable lens 100.

(179) <<Acquisition of Lens Information>>

(180) In the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, the camera microcomputer 34 acquires the lens information from the interchangeable lens 100.

(181) The lens information refers to information indicating a specification of the interchangeable lens 100. The lens information includes, for example, lens model data, lens characteristic data, lens characteristic correction data, and the like. The lens model data includes a lens model name, a focal length, a maximum F-number, a maker name, and the like. The lens characteristic data includes brightness shading data, color shading data, distortion data, aberration data, and the like. The lens characteristic correction data includes brightness shading correction data, color shading correction data, distortion correction data, aberration correction data, and the like. The lens information is stored in the ROM of the lens microcomputer 114.

(182) In the case where the lens microcomputer 114 is activated, the lens information is transmitted to the camera 10. The camera microcomputer 34 receives the lens information transmitted from the interchangeable lens 100 to acquire the lens information on the attached interchangeable lens 100. The transmission of the lens information is performed by unidirectional serial communication through the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG and the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(183) In the case where the lens microcomputer 114 is activated, the lens information is output from the sixth communication port LP6 (TXD port). The lens information output from the sixth communication port LP6 of the lens microcomputer 114 is transmitted through the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG and the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG to be input to the sixth communication port CP6 (RXD port) of the camera microcomputer 34. Accordingly, the lens information on the attached interchangeable lens 100 is acquired on the camera side.

(184) In a case where the transmission and reception of the lens information are completed, the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG and the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG are switched to a function as the contacts for notifying the camera 10 of the state from the interchangeable lens 100.

(185) <<Communication Setting>>

(186) In the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the camera 10, processing (communication setting) for establishing the synchronous serial communication by three lines between the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114.

(187) In a case where the activation of the lens microcomputer 114 is confirmed, the camera microcomputer 34 communicates with the lens microcomputer 114 through the contacts (ninth contact CC9, tenth contact CC10, and eleventh contact CC11 of camera-side contact group CCG and ninth contact LC9, tenth contact LC10, and eleventh contact LC1 of lens-side contact group LCG) for the three-line serial communication to perform the processing for establishing the three-line synchronous serial communication. This processing is performed in parallel with the transmission and reception of the lens information. Accordingly, it is possible to speed up the activation of the interchangeable lens 100.

(188) <<Interchangeable Lens Drive (Power Supply Method)>>

(189) In a case where the communication is established between the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114, the interchangeable lens 100 is at a standby state. Hereinafter, the operation is possible in response to the instruction from the camera 10.

(190) The lens microcomputer 114 communicates with the camera microcomputer 34 using the contacts for the three-line serial communication to receive an instruction from the camera microcomputer 34. The lens microcomputer 114 controls the lens drive unit 110 in response to the received instruction to operate the interchangeable lens 100.

(191) In this case, the lens drive unit 110 operates by receiving the supplying of the power (lens-drive power) from the camera 10. The plurality of pieces of lens-drive power are supplied through the plurality of power contacts (second contact CC2 to fourth contact CC4 on camera-side and second contact LC2 to fourth contact LC4 on interchangeable lens-side). Each of the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 has different voltage and is supplied to the corresponding drive unit. For example, in the interchangeable lens 100 provided with the focus drive unit 110A, the camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B, and the stop drive unit 110C, the first lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage is supplied to the stop drive unit 110C. Further, the second lens-drive power LV2 (+6.5 V) having the intermediate voltage is supplied to the camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110B. Further, the third lens-drive power LV3 (+10 V) having the highest voltage is supplied to the focus drive unit 110A.

(192) In this manner, since the power having the voltage corresponding to each drive unit is supplied from the camera-side, there is no need to generate the power on the interchangeable lens side and thus it is possible to simplify the configuration of the interchangeable lens 100. Further, since noise countermeasure is also unnecessary, it is possible to further simplify the configuration of the interchangeable lens 100.

(193) Furthermore, it is possible to efficiently supply the pieces of power to the lens by supplying the pieces of power to the interchangeable lens through the plurality of power contacts. For example, in a case where large power is required on the interchangeable lens side, a loss in a contact portion becomes large in a case where the power is supplied from one power contact. However, it is possible to reduce the loss in the contact portion by employing the configuration of supplying the pieces of power to the interchangeable lens through the plurality of power contacts and thus to efficiently supply the pieces of power. That is, it is possible to obtain a large contact area by employing the configuration of supplying the pieces of power to the interchangeable lens through the plurality of power contacts and thus to efficiently supply the pieces of power due to the reduction of the loss.

(194) In the camera system 1 of the embodiment, the contacts for the system power can be removed whereas the number of the power contacts increases. Therefore, it is also possible to suppress the increase in the number of contacts.

(195) <<Individual On and Off of Lens-Drive Power>>

(196) As described above, the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power having different voltages are supplied from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(197) However, not all of the pieces of lens-drive power are always used depending on the interchangeable lens 100, and there is a case where only a part of the pieces of lens-drive power is used. For example, in a case where each drive unit operates at the same operation voltage or the like, pieces of lens-drive power having operation voltages other than the operation voltage are not used.

(198) The supplying of the pieces of lens-drive power having the voltages unused on the interchangeable lens side is stopped. Accordingly, it is possible to achieve power saving.

(199) Which voltage lens-drive power is required is different for each interchangeable lens. The camera microcomputer 34 discriminates the lens-drive power having the required voltage based on the lens information acquired from the interchangeable lens 100 to supply only the lens-drive power having the required voltage from the power supply unit 42 to the lens. Specifically, the processing is performed as follows.

(200) First, lens-drive power having a voltage required for the attached interchangeable lens 100 is discriminated based on the lens information acquired from the interchangeable lens 100. The ROM provided in the camera microcomputer 34 stores a determination table, and the camera microcomputer 34 discriminates the lens-drive power having the voltage required for the attached interchangeable lens 100 with reference to the determination table. Information on the lens-drive power having the required voltage is associated with each interchangeable lens (lens model name) constituting the camera system 1 and is recorded in the determination table.

(201) Next, the camera microcomputer 34 controls the lens-drive power switch unit 44 based on a discrimination result to stop the supplying of the lens-drive power unused on the interchangeable lens side. For example, in a case where the second lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage is unused on the interchangeable lens side, the supplying of the second lens-drive power LV2 is stopped. Accordingly, only a required lens-drive power is supplied.

(202) Since the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage is used for the system power of the lens microcomputer 114, the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage is lens-drive power that is used always. Therefore, the power whose supplying is actually stopped is the second lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage or the third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage.

(203) In this manner, it is possible to efficiently supply the power and thus to achieve power saving by stopping the supplying of the lens-drive power unused on the interchangeable lens side.

(204) The lens-drive power having the required voltage is discriminated with reference to the determination table provided on the camera side in this example, but the lens information transmitted from the interchangeable lens may include the lens-drive power having the required voltage.

(205) <<Detachment of Interchangeable Lens>>

(206) In a case where the interchangeable lens 100 is detached from the camera 10, the interchangeable lens 100 is rotated and detached in a direction opposite to the direction in which the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to detach the interchangeable lens 100 from the camera 10. In this case, it is possible to safely detach the interchangeable lens 100 by disposing the power contacts of the interchangeable lens 100 (second contact LC2, third contact LC3, and fourth contact LC4) on the rear side in the rotation direction (front side with respect to rotation direction R at the time of attaching interchangeable lens 100) with respect to the ground contacts of the interchangeable lens 100 (fifth contact LC5 and sixth contact LC6).

(207) That is, the power contacts of the interchangeable lens 100 touch the ground contacts of the camera 10 immediately after the interchangeable lens 100 is rotated in the detached direction by disposing the power contacts adjacent to the rear side of the ground contacts with respect to the rotation direction at the time of detaching the interchangeable lens 100. That is, the power contacts of the interchangeable lens 100 touch the ground contacts of the camera 10 without touching other contacts. Accordingly, it is possible to appropriately process charges remaining in the power contacts and the lines of the power contacts and thus to safely detach the interchangeable lens 100.

(208) Further, it is possible to appropriately process charges remaining on the interchangeable lens side even in a case where the power contacts touch each other by disposing the plurality of power contacts in the descending order of the voltage with respect to the rotation direction at the time of detaching the interchangeable lens 100 (ascending order with respect to rotation direction R at the time of attaching interchangeable lens 100). That is, in the case where the interchangeable lens 100 is rotated to be detached, the power contacts on the interchangeable lens side always touch the power contacts on the camera side that supply the pieces of power having the voltages higher than the power contacts on the interchangeable lens side or the ground contacts. Therefore, even in the case where the charges remain in the power contacts on the interchangeable lens side and in the lines thereof, it is possible to appropriately process the charges. Accordingly, it is possible to safely detach the interchangeable lens 100.

Second Embodiment

(209) [Configuration of Camera System]

(210) FIG. 10 is a system configuration diagram according to a second embodiment of the lens-interchangeable camera system.

(211) As shown in FIG. 10, the camera system 1 of the embodiment further comprises an accessory 200 to be attachably and detachably attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. At least one accessory 200 is provided. In the embodiment, two accessories 200 are provided. The accessory 200 is composed of, for example, an extender, an extension tube, or the like. In the embodiment, both of the two accessories 200 are composed of the extender. In this case, extender lenses are provided. One of the two accessories 200 is composed of the extender that extends the focal length by 1.4 times, and the other is composed of the extender that extends the focal length by 2 times.

(212) <<Appearance Configuration of Accessory>>

(213) The accessory 200 comprises an accessory-side first mount 204A on a base end side of a barrel 202 thereof and comprises an accessory-side second mount 204B on a front end side thereof.

(214) The accessory-side first mount 204A is a mount for attaching the accessory 200 to the camera 10. The accessory-side first mount 204A has the same structure as the lens-side mount 104 provided in the interchangeable lens 100.

(215) The accessory-side second mount 204B is a mount for attaching the interchangeable lens 100 to the accessory 200. The accessory-side second mount 204B has the same structure as the camera-side mount 14 provided in the camera 10.

(216) The accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10 through the accessory-side first mount 204A. In the camera 10 to which the accessory 200 is attached, the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the accessory-side second mount 204B of the accessory 200.

(217) <<Electric Configuration of Accessory>>

(218) FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an electric configuration of an accessory.

(219) <Accessory-Side First Contact Group and Accessory-Side Second Contact Group>

(220) (A) Accessory-Side First Contact Group

(221) The accessory-side first mount 204A of the accessory 200 is provided with an accessory-side first contact group A1CG composed of a plurality of contacts A1C1 to A1C12. The accessory-side first contact group A1CG is provided corresponding to the camera-side contact group CCG. Therefore, the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is configured to have the same number of contacts as the contacts constituting the camera-side contact group CCG, and each of the contacts A1C1 to A1C12 is disposed at the same interval as the contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the camera-side contact group CCG.

(222) In the case where the accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10, each of the contacts A1C1 to A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is connected to the corresponding contacts CC1 to CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG. That is, the first contact A1C1 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is connected to the first contact CC1 of the camera-side contact group CCG, the second contact A1C2 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is connected to the second contact CC2 of the camera-side contact group CCG, . . . , and the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is connected to the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG.

(223) Since the first contact CC1 of the camera-side contact group CCG constitutes the lens detection contact, the first contact A1C1 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG also constitutes the lens detection contact.

(224) Further, since the second contact CC2, the third contact CC3, and the fourth contact CC4 of the camera-side contact group CCG respectively constitute the power contacts, the second contact A1C2, the third contact A1C3, and the fourth contact A1C4 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG also respectively constitute the corresponding power contacts.

(225) The second contact A1C2 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage, and the fourth contact A1C4 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage. Further, the third contact A1C3 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage.

(226) Further, since the fifth contact CC5 and the sixth contact CC6 of the camera-side contact group CCG respectively constitute the ground contacts, the fifth contact A1C5 and the sixth contact A1C6 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG also respectively constitute the corresponding ground contacts.

(227) Furthermore, Since the seventh contact CC7 to the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG respectively constitute the communication contacts, the seventh contact A1C7 to the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG also respectively constitute the corresponding communication contacts.

(228) (B) Accessory-Side Second Contact Group

(229) The accessory-side second mount 204B of the accessory 200 is provided with an accessory-side second contact group A2CG composed of a plurality of contacts A2C1 to A2C12. The accessory-side second contact group A2CG is provided corresponding to the lens-side contact group LCG. Therefore, the accessory-side second contact group A2CG is configured to have the same number of contacts as the contacts constituting the lens-side contact group LCG, and each of the contacts A2C1 to A2C12 is disposed at the same interval as the contacts CC1 to CC12 constituting the lens-side contact group LCG.

(230) In a case where the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the accessory 200, each of the contacts LC1 to LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the corresponding contacts A2C1 to A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG. That is, the first contact LC1 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the first contact A2C1 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG, the second contact LC2 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the second contact A2C2 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG, . . . , and the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG is connected to the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG.

(231) Since the first contact LC1 of the lens-side contact group LCG constitutes the lens detection contact, the first contact A2C1 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG also constitutes the lens detection contact.

(232) Further, since the second contact LC2, the third contact LC3, and the fourth contact LC4 of the lens-side contact group LCG respectively constitute the power contacts, the second contact A2C2, the third contact A2C3, and the fourth contact A2C4 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG also respectively constitute the corresponding power contacts.

(233) The second contact A2C2 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage, and the fourth contact A2C4 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage. Further, the third contact A2C3 is a contact that supplies the lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage.

(234) Further, since the fifth contact LC5 and the sixth contact LC6 of the lens-side contact group LCG respectively constitute the ground contacts, the fifth contact A2C5 and the sixth contact A2C6 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG also respectively constitute the corresponding ground contacts.

(235) Furthermore, since the seventh contact LC7 to the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG respectively constitute the communication contacts, the seventh contact A2C7 to the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG also respectively constitute the corresponding communication contacts.

(236) <Relationship between Accessory-Side First Contact Group and Accessory-Side Second Contact Group>

(237) (A) First Contact

(238) The first contact A1C1 constituting the lens detection contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the first contact A2C1 constituting the lens detection contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a first connection line AL1 in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the first contact CC1 of the camera 10 and the first contact LC1 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in a case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(239) (B) Second Contact to Fourth Contact

(240) The second contact A1C2 constituting the first power contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the second contact A2C2 constituting the first power contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a second connection line AL2 constituting an accessory-side power line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the second contact CC2 of the camera 10 and the second contact LC2 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, the second connection line AL2 functions as a line that supplies the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(241) The third contact A1C3 constituting the second power contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the third contact A2C3 constituting the second power contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a third connection line AL3 constituting the accessory-side power line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the third contact CC3 of the camera 10 and the third contact LC3 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, the third connection line AL3 functions as a line that supplies the second lens-drive power LV2 having the intermediate voltage from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(242) The fourth contact A1C4 constituting the third power contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the fourth contact A2C4 constituting the third power contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a fourth connection line AL4 constituting the accessory-side power line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the fourth contact CC4 of the camera 10 and the fourth contact LC4 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, the fourth connection line AL4 functions as a line that supplies the third lens-drive power LV3 having the highest voltage from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(243) (C) Fifth Contact and Sixth Contact

(244) The sixth contact A1C6 constituting a second ground contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the sixth contact A2C6 constituting the second ground contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a sixth connection line AL6 constituting an accessory-side ground line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the sixth contact CC6 of the camera 10 and the sixth contact LC6 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(245) The fifth contact A1C5 constituting a first ground contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the fifth contact A2C5 constituting the first ground contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to the sixth connection line AL6 respectively through fifth connection lines AL5A and AL5B in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the fifth contact CC5 of the camera 10 and the fifth contact LC5 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(246) (D) Seventh Contact to Twelfth Contact

(247) The seventh contact A1C7 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the seventh contact A2C7 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a seventh connection line AL7 constituting an accessory-side communication line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the seventh contact CC7 of the camera 10 and the seventh contact LC7 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(248) An eighth contact A1C8 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and an eighth contact A2C8 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by an eighth connection line AL8 constituting an accessory-side communication line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the eighth contact CC8 of the camera 10 and the eighth contact LC8 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(249) A ninth contact A1C9 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1 CG and a ninth contact A2C9 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a ninth connection line AL9 constituting an accessory-side communication line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the ninth contact CC9 of the camera 10 and the ninth contact LC9 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(250) A tenth contact A1C10 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and a tenth contact A2C10 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by a tenth connection line AL10 constituting an accessory-side communication line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the tenth contact CC10 of the camera 10 and the tenth contact LC10 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(251) An eleventh contact A1C11 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and an eleventh contact A2C1 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to each other by an eleventh connection line AL11 constituting an accessory-side communication line in the accessory. Accordingly, it is possible to electrically connect the eleventh contact CC11 of the camera 10 and the eleventh contact CC11 of the interchangeable lens 100 also in the case where the accessory 200 is attached between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(252) Here, since the ninth contact, the tenth contact, and the eleventh contact are the contacts used for the three-line serial communication, the ninth connection line AL9, the tenth connection line AL10, and the eleventh connection line AL11 are used for the three-line serial communication.

(253) The twelfth contact A1C12 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side first contact group A1 CG and the twelfth contact A2C12 constituting the communication contact in the accessory-side second contact group A2CG are connected to an accessory microcomputer 210 in the accessory respectively through twelfth connection lines AL12A and AL12B.

(254) <Accessory Microcomputer>

(255) The accessory microcomputer 210 is an example of an accessory control unit and controls an operation of the accessory 200.

(256) The accessory microcomputer 210 comprises a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, and executes a prescribed program to provide various functions. The ROM stores various pieces of data and the like required for the control in addition to various programs executed by the CPU.

(257) FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a function realized by an accessory microcomputer.

(258) As shown in FIG. 12, the accessory microcomputer 210 executes the prescribed program to function as an accessory communication unit 212, a bypass control unit 214, and the like.

(259) The accessory communication unit 212 communicates with the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100 to which the accessory 200 is attached. The communication is performed through an accessory microcomputer input and output port 216. The accessory microcomputer input and output port 216 comprises a first port AP1 and a second port AP2 for performing the single-line serial communication between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100. The first port AP1 functions as the TXD port that outputs the data. The first port AP1 is connected to the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG through the twelfth connection line AL12A (refer to FIG. 11). The second port AP2 functions as the RXD port that receives the data. The second port AP2 is connected to the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG through the twelfth connection line AL12B (refer to FIG. 11).

(260) Accordingly, the camera microcomputer 34 is connected to the accessory microcomputer 210 in a communicable manner through the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG and the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG. Further, the lens microcomputer 114 is connected to the accessory microcomputer 210 in a communicable manner through the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG and the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG.

(261) The bypass control unit 214 is a control unit that controls on and off of a bypass mechanism for the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114 to communicate without passing through the accessory microcomputer 210. The bypass mechanism is composed as follows.

(262) <Bypass Mechanismn>

(263) (A) Configuration of Bypass Mechanism

(264) As shown in FIG. 11, a bypass line 232 is connected between the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG and the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG so as to bypass the accessory microcomputer 210.

(265) A first field-effect transistor (FET) 234 as a first switch and a second FET 236 as a second switch are connected to the bypass line 232.

(266) A source contact of the first FET 234 is connected to the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG through the bypass line 232. Further, a drain contact of the first FET 234 is connected to a drain contact of the second FET 236 through the bypass line 232.

(267) Further, a source contact of the second FET 236 is connected to the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG through the bypass line 232.

(268) Gate contacts of the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 are respectively connected to a line 238 that connects the second connection line AL2 and the sixth connection line AL6.

(269) The third FET 240 as a third switch and a pull-up resistor 242 are connected to the line 238.

(270) As described above, since the second connection line AL2 functions as the line that supplies the first lens-drive power LV1 having the lowest voltage, the gate contacts of the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 connected to the line 238 are respectively pulled up to potential of the first lens-drive power LV1.

(271) A drain contact of the third FET 240 is connected to the pull-up resistor 242 through the line 238. Further, a source contact of the third FET 240 is connected to the sixth connection line AL6 through the line 238. Since the sixth connection line AL6 functions as the ground line, the source contact of the third FET 240 is grounded.

(272) Further, the gate contact of the third FET 240 is connected to the third port AP3 of the accessory microcomputer 210 through the line 244. The accessory microcomputer 210 functioning as the bypass control unit 214 controls the polarity (HIGH level or LOW level) of the third port AP3 to control the on and off of the bypass mechanism.

(273) (B) Operation of Bypass Mechanism

(274) In the case where the accessory 200 is attached, a mode in which the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114 communicate with passing through the accessory microcomputer 210 is set as a normal communication mode, and a mode in which the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114 communicate without passing through the accessory microcomputer 210 is set as the bypass mode. The bypass mechanism is turned off in the normal communication mode, and the bypass mechanism is turned on in the bypass mode.

(275) (1) Normal Communication Mode

(276) The bypass mechanism is turned off in the normal communication mode. In this case, the accessory microcomputer 210 sets the polarity of the third port AP3 of the accessory microcomputer input and output port 216 thereof to the HIGH level. Accordingly, the gate contact of the third FET 240 is set to the HIGH level, and the third FET 240 as the switch is turned on.

(277) On the other hand, the third FET 240 as the switch is turned on to respectively set the gate contacts of the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 to the LOW level. Accordingly, the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 as the switch are turned off. As a result, the bypass line 232 is disconnected, and the bypass mechanism is turned off.

(278) Accordingly, the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114 are communicable through the accessory microcomputer 210. More specifically, the accessory microcomputer 210 and the camera microcomputer 34 are connected in a communicable manner, and the accessory microcomputer 210 and the lens microcomputer 114 are connected in a communicable manner.

(279) The communication herein is the single-line serial communication. In this case, the data is transmitted from the lens microcomputer 114 to the accessory microcomputer 210, and the data is transmitted from the accessory microcomputer 210 to the camera microcomputer 34.

(280) (2) Bypass Mode

(281) The bypass mechanism is turned on in the bypass mode. In this case, the accessory microcomputer 210 sets the polarity of the third port AP3 of the accessory microcomputer input and output port 216 thereof to the LOW level. Accordingly, the third FET 240 as the switch is turned off.

(282) On the other hand, in the case where the third FET 240 as the switch is turned off, the gate contacts of the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 are respectively set to the HIGH level. Accordingly, the first FET 234 and the second FET 236 as the switch are turned on. As a result, the bypass line 232 is conductive, and the bypass mechanism is turned on.

(283) Accordingly, the setting is made that the camera microcomputer 34 and the lens microcomputer 114 can directly communicate without passing through the accessory microcomputer 210.

(284) <Accessory-Side System Power Generation Unit>

(285) A system power for operating the accessory microcomputer 210 is generated by an accessory-side system power generation unit 250 provided in the accessory. The accessory-side system power generation unit 250 generates the system power of the accessory microcomputer 210 using the lens-drive power to be supplied from the camera 10 similarly to the lens-side system power generation unit 112 provided in the interchangeable lens 100.

(286) Here, the accessory microcomputer 210 is configured to operate at a voltage lower than each drive unit constituting the lens drive unit 110 provided in the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the accessory microcomputer 210 is configured to operate at +3.3 V.

(287) The accessory-side system power generation unit 250 generates the system power (+3.3 V) of the accessory microcomputer 210 using the lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage among the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power LV1 to LV3 to be supplied from the camera 10. Therefore, the accessory-side system power generation unit 250 is connected to a second connection line AL2 connected to a second contact which is the power contact.

(288) The accessory-side system power generation unit 250 generates the system power by the voltage drop caused by the resistor similarly to the lens-side system power generation unit 112. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of the noise accompanied by the generation of the system power. The accessory-side system power generation unit 250 is composed of, for example, the LDO regulator.

(289) <Another Configuration>

(290) The twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is grounded through a pull-down resistor AR12 and is pulled down to the ground potential. Accordingly, in the case where the accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10, the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10 is set to the LOW level. The camera microcomputer 34 can detect that the accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10 by detecting that the twelfth contact CC12 is at the LOW level.

(291) The pull-down resistor AR12 to be connected to the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG has a resistance value larger than a pull-up resistor LR12 connected to the twelfth contact LC12 of the interchangeable lens 100. For example, the pull-up resistor LR12 connected to the twelfth contact LC12 of the interchangeable lens 100 is configured to be 2.2 kΩ, and the pull-down resistor AR12 connected to the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG is configured to be 220 kΩ. Accordingly, for example, even in a case where a mode of the accessory 200 is set to the bypass mode, it is possible to set the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10 to the LOW level (second polarity).

(292) Further, the accessory microcomputer input and output port 216 of the accessory microcomputer 210 comprises a fourth port AP4. The fourth port AP4 functions as a communication port for input and is connected to the seventh connection line AL7 through a line 260. Accordingly, the accessory microcomputer 210 can receive the information to be transmitted through the seventh connection line AL7.

(293) [Action of Camera System]

(294) FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a mutual electric connection in a case where the accessory is attached between the camera and the interchangeable lens.

(295) <<Attachment of Accessory>>

(296) The accessory-side first mount 204A provided in the accessory 200 is attached to the camera-side mount 14 provided in the camera 10 to attach the accessory 200 to the camera 10. In this case, the accessory 200 is rotated with respect to the camera 10 for the attachment.

(297) Further, the lens-side mount 104 provided in the interchangeable lens 100 is attached to the accessory-side second mount 204B provided in the accessory 200 to attach the interchangeable lens 100 to the accessory 200. In this case, the interchangeable lens 100 is rotated with respect to the accessory 200 for the attachment.

(298) Accordingly, the accessory 200 is attached between the interchangeable lens 100 and the camera 10. The lens-side contact group LCG of the interchangeable lens 100 is connected to the accessory-side second contact group A2CG of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween. Further, the camera-side contact group CCG of the camera 10 is connected to the accessory-side first contact group A1CG of the accessory 200.

(299) <<Electric Connection between Camera and Interchangeable Lens>>

(300) (A) First Contact

(301) The first contact CC1 of the camera 10 which is the lens detection contact is electrically connected to the first contact LC1 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the first connection line AL1 of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween. Accordingly, the attachment of the interchangeable lens 100 can be detected in the camera 10.

(302) (B) Second Contact to Fourth Contact

(303) The second contact CC2 of the camera 10 which is the first power contact is electrically connected to the second contact LC2 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the second connection line AL2 of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween. Further, the third contact CC3 of the camera 10 which is the second power contact is electrically connected to the third contact LC3 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the third connection line AL3 of the accessory 20. Further, the fourth contact CC4 of the camera 10 which is the third power contact is electrically connected to the fourth contact LC4 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the fourth connection line AL4 of the accessory 200.

(304) Accordingly, it is possible to supply the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100.

(305) (C) Fifth Contact and Sixth Contact

(306) The fifth contact CC5 and the sixth contact CC6 of the camera 10 which are the ground contacts are electrically connected to the fifth contact LC5 and the sixth contact LC6 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the fifth connection lines AL5A and AL5B and the sixth connection line AL6 of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween.

(307) (D) Seventh Contact to Twelfth Contact

(308) The seventh contact CC7 to the eleventh contact CC11 of the camera 10 which are the communication contacts are electrically connected to the seventh contact LC7 to the eleventh contact LC11 of the interchangeable lens 100 through the seventh connection line AL7 to the eleventh connection line AL11 of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween. Accordingly, the three-line serial communication or the like is possible between the camera 10 and the interchangeable lens 100.

(309) Further, the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10 which is the communication contact is electrically connected to the accessory microcomputer 210 through the twelfth connection line AL12A of the accessory 200 due to the attachment of the accessory 200 therebetween. Further, the twelfth contact LC12 of the interchangeable lens 100 which is the communication contact is electrically connected to the accessory microcomputer 210 through the twelfth connection line AL12B of the accessory 200. Accordingly, the communication is possible between the camera microcomputer 34 and the accessory microcomputer 210, and between the lens microcomputer 114 and the accessory microcomputer 210.

(310) <<Detection of Accessory Attachment>>

(311) As described above, the camera microcomputer 34 can detect the presence or absence of the attachment of the accessory 200 by discriminating the polarity of the twelfth contact CC12.

(312) As described above, in the case where the accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10, the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10 is set to the LOW level. The camera microcomputer 34 determines that the accessory 200 is attached to the camera 10 by detecting that the twelfth contact CC12 is at the LOW level.

(313) <<Activation of Accessory Microcomputer>>

(314) In a case where the pieces of lens-drive power LV1, LV2, and LV3 are supplied from the camera 10 to the interchangeable lens 100, a part of the pieces of power is supplied to the accessory-side system power generation unit 250. Specifically, the first lens-drive power LV1 (+5 V) having the lowest voltage is supplied to the accessory-side system power generation unit 250. The accessory-side system power generation unit 250 generates the system power (+3.3 V) of the accessory microcomputer 210 using the supplied lens-drive power LV1 and supplies the generated system power to the accessory microcomputer 210. Accordingly, the accessory microcomputer 210 is activated.

(315) <<Acquisition of Accessory Information>>

(316) In the case where the accessory 200 is attached, accessory information on the attached accessory 200 is transmitted to the camera. The accessory information refers to information indicating a specification of the accessory 200. The accessory information includes, for example, accessory model data, accessory attachment position data, optical correction data, and the like. The accessory model data includes, for example, an accessory model name, an accessory type, a maker name, and the like. The accessory attachment position data includes data on a valid attachment position of the accessory, data on the number of attachments, and the like. The optical correction data includes correction data of an image in the case where the accessory is attached and the like. The accessory information is stored in the ROM of the accessory microcomputer 210.

(317) In the case where the lens information is transmitted from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10, the accessory information is added to the lens information and the added information is transmitted to the camera 10.

(318) As described above, the lens information is transmitted from the interchangeable lens 100 to the camera 10 through the twelfth contact LC12 of the interchangeable lens 100 and the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10.

(319) In the case where the accessory 200 is attached, the lens information output from the twelfth contact LC12 of the interchangeable lens 100 is received by the accessory microcomputer 210 through the twelfth contact A2C12 of the accessory-side second contact group A2CG of the accessory 200.

(320) In a case where the lens information is received from the interchangeable lens 100, the accessory microcomputer 210 adds own accessory information to the lens information and transmits the information to the camera 10. The transmitted information (lens information+accessory information) is output from the twelfth contact A1C12 of the accessory-side first contact group A1CG of the accessory 200 and is received by the camera microcomputer 34 through the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera 10.

(321) Accordingly, the camera 10 can acquire the pieces of information on the attached accessory 200 and the interchangeable lens 100 at the same time.

(322) As described above, in the case where the transmission and reception of the lens information are completed, the twelfth contact CC12 of the camera-side contact group CCG and the twelfth contact LC12 of the lens-side contact group LCG are switched to the function as the contacts for notifying the camera 10 of the state from the interchangeable lens 100. In this case, the accessory is switched to the bypass mode.

Another Embodiment

(323) [Enhancement of Lens-Drive Power]

(324) The power supply unit 42 may comprise a function of enhancing a supplying capacity of specific power (supplying capacity enhancement function) so as to be able to enhance the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power. In this case, the power supply unit 42 enhances the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power having the highest voltage among the plurality of pieces of lens-drive power to be supplied.

(325) It may be adopted a form of increasing the voltage to be supplied and/or a form of increasing a current amount to be supplied as a form for enhancing the supplying capacity.

(326) The camera microcomputer 34 enhances the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power having the highest voltage as necessary. For example, in a case where an interchangeable lens whose drive performance is improved by enhancing the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power is attached, the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power having the highest voltage is enhanced.

(327) Whether a lens is the interchangeable lens whose drive performance is improved by enhancing the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power is different for each interchangeable lens. Information on the interchangeable lens whose drive performance is improved by enhancing the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power is stored in the ROM of the lens microcomputer 114 and is transmitted to the camera 10 including the lens information.

(328) The camera microcomputer 34 determines whether an attached interchangeable lens is the interchangeable lens whose drive performance is improved by enhancing the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power based on the acquired lens information. That is, it is discriminated whether the supplying of the lens-drive power with enhanced supplying capacity is necessary. In a case where it is discriminated that the supplying of the lens-drive power with enhanced supplying capacity is necessary, the supplying capacity enhancement function of the power supply unit 42 is operated. Accordingly, the lens-drive power with enhanced supplying capacity is supplied from the power supply unit 42. In this case, as described above, the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power having the highest voltage is enhanced and supplied.

(329) In this manner, it is possible to appropriately supply the power required for each interchangeable lens by enhancing the supplying capacity of the lens-drive power as necessary. Further, accordingly, it is possible to achieve high performance of the interchangeable lens.

(330) [Configuration of Camera System]

(331) The camera system can be composed of at least one camera and at least one interchangeable lens and can include at least one accessory.

(332) The camera is composed of the digital camera in the embodiment described above, but the invention may also be employed for a so-called silver salt camera.

(333) The invention can prevent the generation of the noise on the interchangeable lens side. Therefore, the invention effectively acts particularly in the case where the invention is employed in the digital camera, particularly in the non-reflex digital camera. In the non-reflex digital camera, there is large influence of the noise received from the interchangeable lens on an interval between the image sensor and the interchangeable lens compared with a reflex digital camera such as a single-lens reflex camera.

(334) The interchangeable lens provided with the AF function, the camera shake correction function, and the stop is described as an example of the interchangeable lens in the embodiment described above, the function provided in the interchangeable lens is not limited thereto. In addition, for example, an electric zoom function and the like may be provided. In an interchangeable lens provided with the electric zoom function, a zoom drive unit that drives a zoom lens which is an optical member for zoom is provided.

(335) As described above, a known accessory such as the extender or the extension tube the accessory may be adopted as the accessory. Ina case where the accessory is provided with the drive unit, the drive unit is driven by using the lens-drive power similarly to the case of the interchangeable lens.

(336) [Type of Lens-Drive Power]

(337) A type of the lens-drive power to be supplied from the camera to the interchangeable lens is set as appropriate depending on an interchangeable lens constituting the camera system. For example, in a case where one of the interchangeable lenses constituting the camera system comprises four optical member drive units (for example, focus drive unit, camera shake correction mechanism drive unit, stop drive unit, and zoom drive unit) and each optical member drive unit operates at a different operation voltage, four types of the lens-drive power are supplied from the camera. In this case, four contacts as the power contacts are provided in the camera-side contact group and the lens-side contact group.

(338) [Ground Contact]

(339) The two ground contacts are provided in the embodiment described above, but one ground contact may be provided. As in the camera system of the embodiment described above, it is possible to more stably supply the power by comprising the plurality of ground contacts.

(340) The independent two ground contacts are provided in the embodiment described above, the two ground contacts may be connected to each other. Accordingly, it is possible to enlarge the area of the contact and thus to more stably supply the power.

(341) [Detection of Normal Supplying of System Power to Lens Microcomputer]

(342) In the embodiment described above, the polarities of the specific contacts are discriminated and the normal supplying of the system power to the lens microcomputer is detected. However, at least one contact for discriminating the polarity may be used. That is, at least one contact may be pulled up to the potential of the system power through the pull-up resistor on the interchangeable lens side. In this case, at least one contact excluding the power contact and the ground contact is used as the contact for detection.

(343) As in the camera system 1 of the embodiment described above, it is possible to more accurately detect that the system power is normally supplied to the lens microcomputer by discriminating the polarities of the plurality of contacts.

(344) [Configuration of Performing Various Pieces of Processing]

(345) The camera control unit performing the various pieces of processing is composed of the microcomputer (camera microcomputer) in the embodiment described above, but a hardware configuration for performing the various pieces of processing is not limited thereto. The hardware configuration may be composed of various processors. The various processors include a CPU which is a general processor functioning as a processing unit that performs various pieces of processing by executing software (program), a programmable logic device (PLD) which is a processor whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacturing such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an exclusive electric circuit which is a processor having a circuit configuration that is exclusively designed for executing specific processing such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like.

(346) One processing unit may be composed of one of these various processors or may be composed of two processors or more having the same type or different types. For example, one processing unit may be composed of a plurality of FPGAs or may be composed of a combination of the CPU and the FPGA.

(347) Further, a plurality of processing units may be configured as one processor. A first example of constituting the plurality of processing units as one processor is a form in which one processor is composed of a combination of one or more CPUs, as represented by computers such as a client and a server, and software, and this processor functions as the plurality of processing units. A second example thereof is a form in which a processor, as represented by a system on chip (SoC) or the like, that realizes the functions of the entire system including the plurality of processing units by one integrated circuit (IC) chip is used. In this manner, the various processing units are composed by using one or more processors of the various processors described above as the hardware configuration.

(348) Furthermore, more specifically, the hardware configuration of these various processors is an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCES

(349) 1: camera system 10: camera 12: camera body 14: camera-side mount 16: image sensor 18: shutter 20: image sensor drive unit 22: shutter drive unit 24: analog signal processing section 26: display unit 28: image data storage unit 30: camera operation unit 32: power source unit 34: camera microcomputer 40: battery 42: power supply unit 44: lens-drive power switch unit 50: digital signal processing section 52: display control unit 54: recording control unit 56: power control unit 58: lens-drive power switch control unit 60: lens attachment detection unit 62: camera communication unit 64: camera microcomputer input and output port 100: interchangeable lens 102: lens barrel 104: lens-side mount 106A: focus lens 106B: camera shake correction lens 106C: stop 110: lens drive unit 10A: focus drive unit 110B: camera shake correction mechanism drive unit 110C: stop drive unit 112: lens-side system power generation unit 114: lens microcomputer 120: focus drive control unit 122: camera shake correction mechanism drive control unit 124: stop drive control unit 126: lens communication unit 128: lens microcomputer input and output port 200: accessory 202: barrel 204A: accessory-side first mount 204B: accessory-side second mount 210: accessory microcomputer 212: accessory communication unit 214: bypass control unit 216: accessory microcomputer input and output port 232: bypass line 234: first FET 236: second FET 238: line 240: third FET 242: pull-up resistor 244: line 250: accessory-side system power generation unit 260: line LV1 to LV3: lens-drive power LV1: first lens-drive power LV2: second lens-drive power LV3: third lens-drive power CCG: camera-side contact group CC1 to CC12: contact CC1: first contact CC2: second contact CC3: third contact CC4: fourth contact CC5: fifth contact CC6: sixth contact CC7: seventh contact CC8: eighth contact CC9: ninth contact CC10: tenth contact CC11: eleventh contact CC12: twelfth contact LCG: lens-side contact group LC1 to LC12: contact LC1: first contact LC2: second contact LC3: third contact LC4: fourth contact LC5: fifth contact LC6: sixth contact LC7: seventh contact LC8: eighth contact LC9: ninth contact LC10: tenth contact LC11: eleventh contact LC12: twelfth contact A1CG: accessory-side first contact group A1C1 to A1C2: contact A1C1: first contact A1C2: second contact A1C3: third contact A1C4: fourth contact A1C5: fifth contact A1C6: sixth contact A1C7: seventh contact A1C8: eighth contact A1C9: ninth contact A1C10: tenth contact A1C11: eleventh contact A1C12: twelfth contact A2CG: accessory-side second contact group A2C1 to A2C12: contact A2C1: first contact A2C2: second contact A2C3: third contact A2C4: fourth contact A2C5: fifth contact A2C6: sixth contact A2C7: seventh contact A2C8: eighth contact A2C9: ninth contact A2C10: tenth contact A2C11: eleventh contact A2C12: twelfth contact CP0 to CP7: camera microcomputer input and output port CP0: lens detection port CP1: first communication port CP2: second communication port CP3: third communication port CP4: fourth communication port CP5: fifth communication port CP6: sixth communication port CP7: seventh communication port LP1 to LP7: lens microcomputer input and output port LP1: first communication port LP2: second communication port LP3: third communication port LP4: fourth communication port LP5: fifth communication port LP6: sixth communication port LP7: seventh communication port AP1 to AP4: accessory microcomputer input and output port AP1: first port AP2: second port AP3: third port AP4: fourth port AL1 to AL12: connection line AL1: first connection line AL2: second connection line AL3: third connection line AL4: fourth connection line AL5A: fifth connection line AL5B: fifth connection line AL6: sixth connection line AL7: seventh connection line AL8: eighth connection line AL9: ninth connection line AL10: tenth connection line AL11: eleventh connection line AL12A: twelfth connection line AL12B: twelfth connection line AR12: pull-down resistor CR1: pull-up resistor LR1: pull-down resistor LR12: pull-up resistor LR7: pull-up resistor LR8: pull-up resistor LR9: pull-down resistor R: rotation direction of interchangeable lens in case where interchangeable lens is attached to camera