JPH0496030A - Camera - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To realize photographing without changing a viewing angle by repeatedly detecting a focus while zooming is executed to a wide side in the case that the focus cannot be detected and returning a focal distance to a focal distance at the starting time of the zooming when the focus can be detected. CONSTITUTION:When a focus detection start switch is turned on, the focus is detected by a range finding part 2. In the case that the focus cannot be detected as the result, the focus is repeatedly detected while the zooming is executed toward the wide side. When the focus can be detected as the result, a lens group for focusing (AF lens) LF is moved to a lens position where it is focused on an object. Thereafter, the lens group LF is zoomed toward a telephoto side while it is fixed at the lens position and the focal distance is returned to the focal distance just before the zooming is executed to the wide side. Then, since exposure is executed after the focal distance is returned to the focal distance at the starting time of the zooming when the focus can be detected, a photograph intended by a photographer is taken without changing the viewing angle.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a camera having a zooming function and automatically focusing.

[Theft] Mouth λ1 Mistake - Conventionally, a camera detects the focus state by receiving the light flux that has passed through the photographic lens with a light sensor such as a CCD, and automatically performs focusing based on the amount of defocus obtained as a result of this detection. (a camera that automatically performs focusing using the TTL method) has been commercialized. In such a camera,
Normally, a certain level of contrast is required to detect the focus state, and if the contrast necessary to detect the focus state cannot be obtained, focus cannot be detected.

On the other hand, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 17420/1983 discloses a camera configured to continue focus detection while zooming toward the wide-angle side in response to a signal indicating that focus detection is impossible. According to this configuration, it is possible to deal with cases where the subject is outside the distance measurement area or where the contrast of the subject itself is insufficient, and it is possible to detect the focus within a certain range.

Furthermore, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 61-282811 discloses a camera having a function called automacro, which focuses on near objects that cannot be focused on the telephoto side by zooming to the wide side. ing. This camera is configured to return the focal length to the focal length before zooming when the subject becomes farther away than the subject distance before zooming to the wide side.

However, if focus detection is repeated while zooming with a camera having the configuration disclosed in JP-A No. 63-17420, the angle of view changes greatly due to the zooming, giving the photographer a sense of discomfort. Problems may arise. Furthermore, in the camera with the configuration disclosed in JP-A No. 61-282811, when zooming to the wide side to focus on a subject that is closer than the shooting distance, the focal point before zooming will remain as long as the subject does not move away. The distance does not return to normal, and the angle of view remains unchanged.

Therefore, the present invention solves these problems and provides a camera that can take pictures without changing the angle of view if focus detection becomes possible even if zooming is performed to enable focus detection. The purpose is to

In order to achieve the above object, the camera of the present invention has a zooming function and a focus detection start switch and a focus detection means, as described in claim 1'#l. In a camera that automatically performs focusing using a TTL method using a zoom lens group driving means and a focus adjustment lens group driving means, when the focus detection start switch is turned on, focus detection is performed by the focus detection means. a focus detectable signal output means for outputting a focus detectable signal when the focus cannot be detected as a result, and a memory means for storing a focal length; After storing the focal length in the storage means, the focus detection means repeats focus detection while zooming toward the wide side using the zoom lens group drive means, and when focus detection becomes possible, the subject is brought into focus. By moving the focusing lens group to a lens position by the focusing lens group driving means, and then zooming by the zoom lens group driving means while keeping the focusing lens group fixed at the lens position, and control means for controlling the focal length to return to the focal length stored by the storage means.

Further, as described in the second claim, it has a zooming function, and automatically performs focusing by a TTL method using a focus detection start switch, a focus detection means, and a focus adjustment lens group driving means. In a camera that performs focus detection, the zoom lens group driving means and the focus detection start switch are turned on, the focus detection means performs focus detection, and if the focus detection is not possible as a result, a focus detection failure signal is output. and a signal output means, and when the focus detection impossible signal is output, the focus detection means repeats focus detection while driving the focus adjustment lens group by the focus adjustment lens group drive means, and as a result, the focus is still not in focus. A low contrast scan completion signal output means for outputting a low contrast scan completion signal when detection is not possible; a storage means for storing a focal length; and a focus detection start switch that continues to operate the focus detection start switch even after the low contrast scan completion signal is output. is turned on, the focal length at that point is stored in the storage means, and then the focus detection means repeats focus detection while zooming toward the wide side with the zoom lens group drive means, and the focus detection means repeats focus detection. If possible, after moving the focusing lens group by the focusing lens group driving means to a lens position where the subject is in focus, the focusing lens group may be fixed at the lens position and then and a control means for controlling the focal length to return to the focal length stored by the storage means by zooming with the zoom lens group driving means.

According to the camera according to the first aspect, focus detection is performed when the focus detection start switch is turned on, and if focus detection is not possible as a result, focus detection is repeated while zooming toward the wide side. As a result, if the focus can be detected, the focus adjustment lens group moves to the lens position where the subject is in focus, and then the focus adjustment lens group zooms toward the telephoto side while remaining fixed at that lens position. The focal length returns to the focal length immediately before zooming to the wide side.

According to the camera according to the second aspect, if focus detection is not possible as a result of focus detection being performed by turning on the focus detection start switch, focus detection is first performed while driving the focus adjustment lens group. Repeated.

As a result, if focus detection is still not possible and the focus detection start switch is still turned on,
Focus detection is repeated while zooming toward the wide-angle side.

(blank below)! JLIL Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the present invention, a single-lens reflex camera system equipped with an interchangeable lens whose focal length can be changed by a motor will be described.

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of this system. As shown in this figure, the camera body side inputs data from the distance measuring section (2) to the body control section (1) to calculate the amount of lens drive for focusing, and By energizing the motor (Ml) in the drive control unit (3),
Focus adjustment lens group (hereinafter referred to as rAF lens) (
A function that automatically focuses by driving the LF),
Body data output section (4) and lens data input section (5)
), it has the function of communicating with the lens side and operating the lens according to the body's will.

Also, on the lens side, there is a zoom ring operation detection means (10).
When an operation is detected, the zoom lens group drive control unit (7) energizes the motor (M3) to drive the zoom lens group (L,) to perform zooming (hereinafter referred to as "power zoom"). ''), and a function to output lens data to the body by communicating with the body through the body data input section (8) and lens data output section (9), and a function to operate according to the data from the body. have.

Next, the external configuration of the body and lens will be explained.

Figure 2(a) shows a camera body (BD) to which the present invention is applied.
The figure (b) shows the external configuration of the interchangeable lens (LE) that is replaceably attached to the camera body (BD).
shows the external configuration of. Hereinafter, the names and functions of each part will be briefly explained based on FIG. 2.

(11) is a slider for turning the main switch (sl,) 0N10FF, and this slider (11) is
When in the N position, the camera body (BD) is in an operable state, and when in the OFF position, the camera body (BD) is in an inoperable state.

(12) is the release button, and when it is pressed to the first step, the shooting preparation switch (Sl), which will be described later, is turned on, and the metering and
Start each operation of exposure calculation and AF (automatic focusing). In addition, by pressing the second step, you can also use the release switch (described later).
S2) is turned on to start the exposure control operation.

(13) is a wide view key, which is used to obtain a finder field of view wider than the actual shooting area before shooting (before release). In other words, this key is used to zoom up the camera at the time of release so that the shooting area visible within the shooting frame (FD2) (Fig. 5), which will be described later, coincides with the range that is imaged on the film. ``view'') is used to turn ON10FF.

(14) is the body display section, which displays information such as shutter speed, aperture value, switches, battery warning mark, etc. Further, the display section in the viewfinder shown in FIG. 5 displays the shutter speed (FD4), photographic frame (FD2), etc.

(15) is a mount lock bin. Interchangeable lens (L
E) is attached and in the mount lock state, a lens attachment switch (SLE), which will be described later, is turned off, and otherwise, the lens attachment switch (SLE) is turned on.

(16) is an AF coverr, which is rotationally driven based on the rotation of the AF motor within the camera body (BD).

(17) is the aperture lever and the camera body (BD
) Interchangeable lenses (LE) for the number of aperture stages determined by
This lever is used to narrow down the aperture.

(18) is an auto wide key, which is used to turn the auto wide function 0N10FF. Here, auto wide is used to automatically zoom in the wide direction when focus cannot be detected during normal auto focusing, or when focus cannot be detected even after low contrast scanning is completed. It means repeating the distance.

Low contrast scanning is when the contrast necessary to detect the focus state during distance measurement cannot be obtained (
Hereinafter, this state will be referred to as "low contrast"), which means repeating distance measurement while driving the AF lens.

Note that focus detection is a general term for the following operations (1) to (4), and in this embodiment, it is used to mean the same as distance measurement.

■Detect whether it is low contrast or not.

■Detects the focus state if the contrast is not low.

That is, the amount of focus deviation (defocus amount) is detected and it is determined whether or not the focus is in focus.

(2) If it is not in focus, the position of the AF lens that will be in focus or the number of drive pulses for the AF lens required to bring it into focus is calculated based on the defocus amount.

In this embodiment, the focus cannot be detected only during low contrast, and cases where focus cannot be detected due to low brightness can be treated separately from cases where focus cannot be detected due to low contrast. This will not be considered in the following explanation.

Next, the names and functions of each part in the interchangeable lens (LE) will be explained.

(25) is the mount lock groove, (26) is the AF coupler,
(27) is the aperture lever. Camera body (BD
) When you attach an interchangeable lens (LE) to the camera body (
The mount lock pin (15) of the BD) engages with the mount lock groove (25), and the convex part of the AF coupler (16) on the body side engages with the concave part of the AF coupler (26) on the lens side.
The rotation of the AF motor on the body side is the AF cover (16) (
26) to the lens side, and the AF lens moves to perform focusing. Furthermore, the terminal on the lens side (
J, ) to (J8) are terminals on the body side (J++) to (Jl
・) is connected. Further, the aperture lever (17) engages with the aperture lever (27) on the lens side, and the aperture lever (27) on the lens side follows and moves by the amount of movement of the aperture lever (17) on the body side. is controlled to a value corresponding to the movement of the aperture levers (17) (27).

(28) is a lens display section that displays focal length and the like.

Reference numeral (80) denotes an operating ring (zoom ring), which is rotated to specify the direction and speed of power zoom.

Next, the circuit configuration of the camera system will be explained.

FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram of the in-body circuit built into the camera body (BD). First, the in-body circuit will be explained based on this diagram.

(μC1) is an in-body microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "in-body microcomputer") that controls the entire camera and performs various calculations.

(AFCT) is a light receiving circuit for focus detection, and C
A that processes the CD, CCD drive circuit, and CCD output.
It is connected to the in-body microcontroller (μC1) via a data bus. There is. This focus detection light receiving circuit (AFCT) provides information regarding the defocus amount of the subject present in the distance measurement area.

(LM) is a photometric circuit installed in the viewfinder optical path, and the photometric value is A/D converted and the in-body microcontroller (μ
C1) as luminance information.

(DX) is a film sensitivity reading device that reads film sensitivity data provided in a film container and serially outputs it to the microcomputer (μC1) in the body. (DISPC)
inputs display data and display control signals from the microcomputer (μC1) in the body, and displays the display section (DIS) on the top of the camera body.
PI) (display section (14) in FIG. 2) and the display section (DISP1+) in the viewfinder (FIG. 5) are display circuits that cause predetermined displays to be performed.

Here, the display in the finder of FIG. 5 will be explained. In this figure, (FDI) is the finder frame,
Indicates the area where you can actually see the subject. (
FD2) is a shooting frame that is displayed when the wide view function is turned on by operating the wide view key (13), and it becomes possible to shoot a subject within the shooting frame. (FD3) is a display of the distance measurement area, indicating that it is possible to focus on the subject within this frame. However, in reality, the distance measurement area (FD3)
Inside are ranging islands (a) to (=) as shown in Figure 9.
are provided, and the objects within these distance measurement islands are focused. (FD4) and (
FD5) is the shutter speed and control aperture value, respectively, and indicates the values obtained by photometric calculation.

(LEC?) is an in-lens circuit built into an interchangeable lens (LE) (hereinafter also simply referred to as a "lens"), and supplies information specific to the interchangeable lens to an in-body microcomputer (μC1). This intra-lens circuit (LECT) will be explained in detail later.

(Ml) is the AF motor, AF coupler (16) (
26) to drive the AF lens in the interchangeable lens (LE).

(MDI) uses the AF motor (!1) based on focus detection information.
1), and its forward rotation, reverse rotation, and stop are controlled by commands from the microcomputer (μC1) in the body.

(ENC) is an encoder for monitoring the rotation of the AF motor (Ml), and outputs a pulse to the counter input terminal (CNT) of the in-body microcomputer (μC1) at every predetermined rotation angle. The in-body microcomputer (μC1) counts these pulses and controls the speed of the AF lens.

(TVc engineering) is a shutter control circuit that controls the shutter based on a control signal from the in-body microcomputer (μC1).

(AVCT) is an aperture control circuit that controls the aperture based on a control signal from an in-body microcomputer (μC1).

(M2) is a motor for winding and rewinding the film and charging the exposure control mechanism. Also, (Mn
2) is a motor drive circuit that drives the motor (M2) based on commands from the in-body microcomputer (μC1).

Next, the configuration related to the power supply will be explained.

(El) is a battery that serves as a power source for the camera body (BD).

(Trl) is the first
This is a power supply transistor. (Tr2) is a second power supply transistor for supplying power for driving the zoom motor within the lens, and has an MO8 configuration.

(DD) is a DC/DC converter to stabilize the voltage (VDD) supplied to the microcomputer (μC1) in the body, and the power supply control terminal (pwo) is
Works when level. (VDD) is the microcomputer in the body (μC1), the circuit in the lens (LEcv), and the film sensitivity reading circuit (DX).

and the operating power supply voltage of the display control circuit (DISPC).

(Vcc+) is a focus detection light receiving circuit (AFCT),
and the operating power supply voltage of the photometry circuit (LM), which is supplied from the power supply battery (El) via the power supply transistor (Tri) under the control of the signal output from the power supply control terminal (PWI). (VDD2) is the operating power supply voltage of the zoom motor inside the lens, and is supplied from the power supply battery (El) via the power supply transistor (Tr2) under the control of the signal output from the power supply control terminal (PN2). (VccJ
are motor drive circuit (MDI), shutter control circuit (TVcv), aperture control circuit (AVcT),
and the operating power supply voltage of the motor drive circuit (Mn2), which is directly supplied from the power supply battery (El).

(DI) to (D3) provide a voltage lower than the voltage (VDD) to the microcontroller (μC1) in the body to reduce power consumption when the DC/DC converter (DD) is not operating. It is a group of diodes. This low voltage is set to the lowest power supply voltage at which the in-body microcontroller (μC1) can operate, and when the DC/DC converter (DD) has stopped operating, the in-body microcontroller (μC1)
) is operational.

(BCI) is electricity? Detects the voltage (Vccs) of fD (El) and sends the detection result to the microcontroller (μC1) in the body.
This is a battery check circuit that notifies the battery.

(GNDI) is the ground line of the low power consumption section,
The lens and the body are connected via terminals (JI7) (JT). It is necessary to use separate ground lines for the analog section and digital section within the body, but for convenience, only one line is shown in the drawing.

(GND2) is the ground line of the large power consumption section,
The lens and the body are connected via a terminal (Jll) (Jll).

Next, the switches will be explained.

(S, u) are normally open pushbutton switches for enabling/disabling the wide view mode, and are turned on when the aforementioned wide view key (13) is pressed.

(Sb,) is a normally open bushing switch for enabling/disabling the auto-wide function, and is turned on when the auto-wide key (18) mentioned above is pressed.

($1) is a photographing preparation switch that is turned on when the release button (12) is pressed down to the first step. This switch (
SL) is turned ON, an interrupt signal is input to the interrupt terminal (INTI) of the microcomputer (μC1) in the body, and preparatory operations necessary for photometry, distance measurement, and photographing of the AF lens driving force are performed.

(So) is the slider (
11) is a main switch that is turned ON when it is in the ON position, and turned OFF when it is in the OFF position.

(PCI) switch (mixed) changes from ON to OFF or O
This is a pulse generator that outputs a "Low" level pulse every time it changes from FF to ON. The output of this pulse generator (PGl) is input as an interrupt signal to the interrupt terminal (INT2) of the in-body microcomputer (μC1).

(S2) is a release switch that is turned on when the release button (12) is pressed down to the second step. This switch (
When S2) is turned on, a photographing operation is performed.

(S3) is a mirror-up switch that is turned ON when the mirror-up is completed, charges the shutter mechanism, and is turned OFF when the mirror is lowered.

(SREI) is a battery attachment detection switch that turns OFF when a battery (El) is attached to the camera body (BD). When the battery (El) is installed and the battery installation detection switch (SREI) is turned OFF, the capacitor (C1) is charged via the resistor (R1) and the microcomputer (
The reset terminal (REI) of μC1) changes from the “Low” level to the “High II” level. Then, the in-body microcomputer (μC1) executes a reset routine to be described later.

Next, a configuration for serial data communication will be explained.

Photometry circuit (LM), film sensitivity reading circuit (DX)
, and the display control circuit (DISPC) have serial input (SIN).

The in-body microcontroller (
Serial data communication is carried out with μC1). and,
Body.

The communication target with the internal microcontroller (μC1) is the chip select terminal (C3LM) (C3DX) (C3DISP)
Selected by

That is, when the terminal (C3LM) is at "Low" level, the photometric circuit (LM) is selected, and the terminal (C8DX)
When is at 'Low' level, the film sensitivity reading circuit (
DX) is selected and the terminal (C8DISP) is set to “L o
w" level, the display control circuit (DISPC) is selected. Furthermore, the three serial communication signal lines (SIN) (SOUT) (SCK) are connected to the terminal (Jl8
)(Ja); (Jl,)(Ja); (Jl6)(J
a), and when selecting the lens circuit (LECT) as a communication target, the terminal (C3LE) is set to "Low" level, and this signal is Terminal (Ja) (Jl3)
The signal is transmitted to the lens internal circuit (LECT) via.

Next, the lens internal circuit (LECT) will be explained based on FIG. FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram of the lens internal circuit (LEcT) built into the interchangeable lens (LE). In the figure,
(μC2) is an in-lens microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as "in-lens microcomputer") that controls the zoom motor built into the interchangeable lens (LE), data communication with the camera body (BD), mode settings, etc. It is.

Here, the terminal group (J
, ) to (Ja), (Jl) is a power supply terminal for supplying power supply voltage (VcC2) for driving the zoom motor from the body side to the lens side, and (J2) is a power supply terminal other than the power supply for driving the zoom motor. A power supply terminal for supplying voltage (VDD) from the body side to the lens side, (Js) is a terminal for input/output of a signal indicating a data communication request, and (Jj) is a terminal for inputting a clock for data communication from the body side. Clock terminal, (Ja) is a serial input terminal that inputs data from the body side, (Ja) is a serial output terminal that outputs data to the body side, (J7) is a ground terminal for circuits other than the motor drive circuit, ( Ja) is a ground terminal of the motor drive circuit.

The signal line for the terminal (C8LE) transmitted via the terminals (Ja) (Jl3) between the interchangeable lens and the body is a bidirectional signal line. This line connects the microcomputer in the body (μC1) to the microcomputer in the lens (
When the signal is transmitted to the lens microcomputer (μC2),
An interrupt occurs in the lens microcomputer (μC2).
) is activated and the interchangeable lens is designated as the object of communication with the body. On the other hand, via this line, the microcomputer in the lens (μC2) is connected to the microcomputer in the body (μC1).
When the signal is transmitted to , the pulse generator (μC2) (Figure 3) inputs the interrupt signal to the lens interrupt terminal (LEINT) of the in-body microcontroller (μC1), and the in-body microcontroller (μC1) is activated. . In addition, from the microcomputer in the body (μC1) to the microcomputer in the lens (μC2)
When data is sent to the body, the microcontroller (μ
C1) is configured not to accept interrupts (LEINT).

(R8IC) is a reset IC for resetting the lens microcomputer (μC2) when the voltage (VDD) supplied from the body becomes lower than the normal operating voltage of the lens microcomputer (μC2). (R2) and (C2) are a reset resistor and a capacitor for resetting the microcomputer (μC2) inside the lens.

(RE2) is the reset terminal of the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens, and the voltage (VDD) for driving the circuit in the lens is supplied from the body, and the resistor (R2) and capacitor (
C2) causes the terminal (RE) to change from “Low” level.”
When the level changes to High°, the microcomputer inside the lens (
μC2) performs a reset operation.

(ZVEN) is the aforementioned operation ring (zoom ring > (80
), which sets the power zoom speed and direction during power zoom.

(N3) is a zoom motor for driving the zoom lens group. By driving the zoom lens group with this zoom motor, the focal length can be continuously changed without changing the position of the image point.

(Mn2) is a motor drive circuit for driving the zoom motor (M3), which controls the rotation of the zoom motor (M3) according to control signals indicating the motor drive direction and drive speed given from the microcomputer (μC2) inside the lens. Control. In addition, the zoom motor (M3
) and stop applying voltage.

(ENC3) is an encoder for detecting the amount of rotation of the zoom motor (N3), and is also used when detecting the focal length.

(DSP) is an in-lens display control circuit that performs display on the lens display section (28) based on data from the in-lens microcomputer (μC2).

(SLE) is a lens attachment detection switch, which is turned OFF when the interchangeable lens (LE) is attached to the camera body (BD) and the mount is locked. In other words, when the interchangeable lens (LE) is removed from the camera body (BD), the switch (SLE) is turned on and the condenser (C2
) are shorted. This allows the capacitor (C2
) is discharged, and the terminal (RE2) of the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens becomes "Low" level. After that, the interchangeable lens (LE) becomes the camera body (BD).
When the switch (SL) is installed, the switch (SL) is turned OFF, the capacitor (C2) is charged by the power supply line (VDD), and after a predetermined time determined by the resistor (R2) and capacitor (C2), the terminal (RE2) is turned off. “The level changes to the old ghll level, and as described above, the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens performs a reset operation.

This concludes the explanation of the hardware of this embodiment, and then the explanation of the software will begin.

First, an outline of the operational sea fence in the wide field mode and the automatic wide operational sea fence, which is a feature of this embodiment, will be explained with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9.

FIG. 6 is a sea fence chart in wide-field mode, and FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an image in the finder in wide-field mode. Here, what is sea fence chart?
This is a diagram showing the respective operational sea fences of the body and lens in a camera, along with the communication between the body and lens so that the relationship and timing of mutual operations can be understood. This communication will be explained later for each communication mode as lens communication.

In Fig. 6, when the wide view switch (S, , ) is turned on after the main switch (mixed) is turned on,
The wide-field mode is set and the photographing frame (FD2) shown in FIG. 8(a) is displayed in the finder.

After that, if the shooting preparation switch (Sl) and release switch (S2) are turned on at the same time in order to release the camera as soon as possible as a sea fence, first, distance measurement and light metering are not performed), and the current focal point is set in order to zoom up. distance f. Set the target focal length ft which is 1.4 times (
In this embodiment, the viewfinder field of view is 140%). Next, erase the shooting frame (FD2) and set the target focal length ft.
is transferred to the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens (communication #C in mode ■). The microcomputer (μC2) in the lens receives the target focal length ft and starts zooming until the target focal length ft is reached (FIG. 8(b)). At this time, the body side does not perform communication to receive the lens status at fixed time intervals), and waits for the lens to complete zooming (communication #d, #d" in mode ■). Confirms completion of zooming. After that, charge accumulation in the CCD (hereinafter referred to as rCCD integration or simply "integration") is performed for remeasuring the distance.
A mode (IV) communication (#a) is performed to transfer data indicating the start timing of the CCD integration, and CCD integration is started. No data dump is performed after the CCD integration),
When data dump is completed, communication in mode (To) to receive lens data that changes due to zooming,
The lens data is used to perform distance measurement calculations and photometry calculations. Here, regarding reception of lens data that changes during zooming (the specific details will be described later),
You can also receive it from the lens after zooming is complete.
Further, the reason for performing distance measurement and photometry again after completing zooming is to improve the accuracy of distance measurement and photometry. When the re-distance measurement and re-photometry are completed, driving of the AF lens corresponding to the amount of defocus detected in the re-distance measurement is started, and while driving the AF lens during release, the mirror is raised and exposed. After that, when 5 seconds have passed since the shooting preparation switch (Sl) and the release switch (S2) were turned off, the wide-field mode is set again, and the shooting frame (F
D2) is displayed. During these 5 seconds, the internal microcontroller (μ
C1) is the time required to enter the sleeve state, and does not have to be limited to 5 seconds. Here, the switch (Sl) and (
The reason why the wide-field mode is not set for 5 seconds after S2) is turned off is to prevent the camera from continuing to zoom up when continuously photographing the same scene.

Next, the automatic wide operation sea fence will be explained based on FIGS. 7 and 9. FIG. 7 is an auto-wide sea fence chart, and FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an image in the finder during auto-wide. In FIG. 9, (a) to (d) are distance measurement islands, and distance measurement can be performed to objects within each of these distance measurement islands. Then, for example, a multi-point algorithm is used that focuses on the closest subject if focus can be detected on all distance measurement islands.

The sea fence shown in FIG. 7 is an example that starts from the completion of the low contrast scan. When the low contrast scan is completed, first, the current focal length f is determined. Find the target focal length fI from The target focal length f is preferably set to a value that does not give the photographer a sense of discomfort even when zoomed, and in this embodiment, it is set to 0.5 times the current focal length f7. Once the target focal length f is determined, the data indicating the CCD integration start timing and the target focal length f are transferred to the lens side through mode (V) communication (#a'). On the lens side, the target focal length is f.

When receiving the focal length f, zooming is started with the focal length f as the target. At that time, the body side starts CCD integration to perform distance measurement during zooming, and when the CCD integration and data dump are completed, the body side receives the lens data calculated on the lens side at the CCD integration start timing (mode ■Communication #b). Then, distance measurement and photometry calculations are performed using the lens data, and if the distance measurement is low contrast, mode (V) communication (#a'),
CCD integration.

data dump, mode (Vl) communication (llb),
Distance measurement, photometry calculations, and checking for completion of zooming are repeated in order.

Now, let us consider a case where focus detection becomes possible during the zooming described above. In this case, when the contrast necessary for detecting the focus state is obtained, data indicating the zoom stop is transferred to the lens (communication #e in mode 2). When the lens side receives data indicating zoom stop, it brakes the zoom lens group to stop it. At this time, on the body side, communication (#d) (#d) in mode (I[l) for receiving the lens state in order to detect the stoppage of the zoom lens group is performed.
After repeating steps d") and confirming that the zoom lens group has stopped, drive the AF lens and perform focusing. In the Sea Fence chart in Figure 7, the communication (#d") confirms that the zoom lens group has stopped. After that, the AF lens is driven for focusing based on the distance measurement value (the number of AF lens drive pulses) obtained during distance measurement during zooming.
If the distance measurement accuracy is low, do not drive the AF lens immediately and perform the next distance measurement (mode IV, VI communication #a,
The AF lens may be driven using the distance measurement values obtained in (including #b).

Next, although not shown in FIG. 7, a case will be considered in which the focus cannot be detected during the zooming. Since the communication (#b) of the mode (Vl) also includes data representing the state of the zoom lens group, in this case, the driving state of the zoom lens group is confirmed in the auto-wide processing after the photometry calculation. If the zoom lens group is stopped as a result of this confirmation, it is determined that focus detection is impossible even if zoomed to the target focal length ft, and distance measurement using auto wide is given up.

This completes the explanation of the outline of the operational sea fence of this embodiment.Next, the operation of this embodiment will be explained in detail by explaining the software of the microcomputer in the body (μC1) and the microcomputer in the lens (μC2). The contents of lens communication in the following explanation are shown in Table 1.
Lens status data sent from the lens to the body is shown in Table 2, and body status data sent from the body to the lens is shown in Table 3. Further, in the following explanation, control flags used in flowcharts are shown in Table 4, and variables are shown in Table 5, respectively.

First, the software of the in-body microcomputer (μC1) will be explained.

When the battery (El) is installed in the camera body (ED),
In the in-body circuit shown in Figure 3, the battery insertion detection switch (SREI) is turned OFF, the reset capacitor (C1) is charged via the resistor (R1), and the in-body microcomputer (SREI) that controls the entire camera is charged. μC1) reset terminal (REI) from °'Low' level to High.
``A reset signal that changes to level is input.

By inputting this reset signal, the in-body microcontroller (μ
C1) starts generating a Glock using internal hardware, operates a DC/DC converter (DD), is supplied with a driveable voltage (VDD), and is connected to the 10th clock.
Execute the reset routine shown in the figure.

Note that in the sleeve state, which will be described later, the clock of the microcomputer (μC1) in the body stops and the DC/DC converter (DD) also stops operating. As when installed, the internal hardware of the in-body microcomputer (μC1) generates the clock and controls the DC/DC converter (D
Start operation D).

The reset routine in Figure 10 first disables all interrupts, resets various boats and registers,
Flag indicating that the reset routine has been passed (R5TF
) (steps #5 to #15). Then, in step (R20), it is determined whether the main switches (S, X) are turned on. In addition, the main switch (S
, ) changes from ON to OFF or from OFF to ON, an interrupt (SM
INT) is generated and the process is executed from step (R20). When the main switch (mixed) is turned on in step (R20), all interrupts are enabled, a flag (R8TF) indicating that the reset routine has been passed is reset, and power is supplied to each circuit and lens side. In order to turn on the transistors (Tri) (Tr2) for performing
#35).

Next, in step (R30), an AF lens renormalization subroutine is executed. This subroutine is shown in FIG. When this subroutine is called, first, in step (R150), a subroutine for lens communication (■) is executed.

Lens communication (■) is communication in the communication mode (■) in which data is input from the new lens described in this example (hereinafter referred to as "new lens") among various communication modes between the body and the lens. It is.

Here, the new lens refers to a lens that is equipped with a zoom motor (M3) for changing the focal length and a microcomputer (μC2) inside the lens, and can transfer more data to the body than the old lens.

The subroutine for lens communication (■) is shown in FIG. When this subroutine is called, it first sets data indicating that the communication mode is mode (■), and then sets the data indicating that the communication mode is mode (■).
C8LE) to Low level to notify the lens that data communication will be performed (step #1120. #1
122). Then, in step (#1125), 2-byte serial communication (serial input/output) is performed. In this serial communication, the body and lens serially output data to each other and simultaneously serially input data sent from the other. The first byte outputs data indicating the type of body from the body. At this time,
Meaningless data from the lens F F H (subscript is 1
(indicating a hexadecimal number) is output, and the lens and body each input the data sent from the other party. The second byte outputs data indicating the type of lens from the lens. At this time, meaningless data F F H is output from the body, and the lens and body each input data sent from the other party. Then, to indicate that the communication mode with the lens is mode (■), 1-byte data of the communication mode set above is serially output to the lens, and after waiting for a while, in step (#1130), the old lens is Determine whether or not.

As a result of this judgment, if it is an old lens, input 7 bytes of data from the lens and set the terminal (C8LE) to “High”.
° level and return (Step #1135.
#1138). As a result of the determination in step (#1130), if the lens is a new lens, input 11 bytes of data from the lens, set the terminal (C3LE) to High" level, and return (step [132, #11.38). Before returning, set the terminal (C8LE) to °“High.
The reason for setting the level is to notify the lens of the end of this lens communication (■).Similar processing is performed in other modes of lens communication.

Here, the contents of the communication data between the body and the lens in this example will be explained with reference to Table 1.

First, in lens communication with the old lens (not shown), lens-specific data is sent from the lens to the body, and the contents of the data are (i) Open aperture value AV.

(11) Maximum aperture value AVnax (iii) Conversion coefficient KL for converting the defocus amount into a drive amount (hereinafter, this conversion coefficient will be referred to as a "drive amount conversion coefficient") (iv) Current focal length f.

(V) Lens attachment signal. N (vl) Conversion coefficient K for converting the amount of extension into distance
s (hereinafter, this conversion coefficient will be referred to as "distance conversion coefficient") (vii) Difference ΔSB between the film surface and the AF sensor surface.

On the other hand, modes (■) to () are available for lens communication with the new lens.
IX), and these communications are called lens communications (1) to (IX), respectively. Lens communication in each mode will be explained below. In the following, the data transferred from the lens to the body will be collectively referred to as lens data, and the data shown in Table 2 that represents the driving status of the lens will be collectively referred to as lens status data. The data shown in Table 3 representing control commands etc. will be collectively referred to as body state data.

In lens communication (I), data indicating the zoom retraction mode is sent from the body to the lens.

In lens communication (I[), data indicating a zoom stop (body state data) is sent from the body to the lens.

In lens communication (Ill), data (Table 2) indicating the lens state is sent from the lens to the body.

In lens communication (TV), data (body state data) indicating the CCD integration start timing is sent from the body to the lens. Immediately after this communication, the microcomputer (μC) inside the lens
2) starts calculation of lens data (data that changes depending on the focal length) at the focal length at that time.

In lens communication (V), data indicating the CCD integration start timing (body state data) and (x) target focal length ft are sent from the body to the lens.

In lens communication (Vl), the lens status data and the previously executed mode (IV) or (
Lens data calculated at the time of communication V), which changes depending on the focal length, is sent. This latter data is: (iii) Drive amount conversion coefficient KL (1v) Current focal length f.

(vi) The distance conversion coefficient is 8. (vii) Each data is the difference ΔSB between the film surface and the AF sensor surface.

In lens communication (■), all lens-specific data is sent from the lens to the body. The contents of this data are lens condition data and (i) maximum aperture value AV.

(11) Maximum aperture value AVゎ, 8 (iii) Drive amount conversion coefficient K.

(]V) Current focal length fn (v) Lens mounting signal Lll (vi) Add 1 to the distance conversion coefficient (vii) Difference Δ5B between the film surface and the AF sensor surface (vi
ii) Shortest focal length f1. .

(ix) Maximum focal length Lm It is.

In lens communication (■), data indicating permission for power zoom (body status data) is sent from the body to the lens.

In lens communication (IX), body state data and (x) target focal length yaf are sent from the body to the lens.

Each of the above data (i) to (X) is 1 node, and each of the body condition data and lens condition data is 2 nodes.
It is input and output as bytes.

In addition, modes (IV) and (V) for transmitting data indicating the timing to start CCD integration are communicated, and a mode (Vl) for receiving and taking lens data (data that changes depending on the focal length) after CCD integration and data dumping is performed. ), it becomes possible to calculate lens data with the microcomputer (μC2) inside the lens during CCD integration and data dumping. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the time required to calculate lens data and shorten the time required for distance measurement.

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 11, step (#152
) Continue the explanation. In step (#152), the value of the counter N that indicates the amount of drive of the AF lens for focusing is set to -NLG (a negative value with a large absolute value), and whether the first bit is O or 1 indicates positive or negative. ), and in step (#155) the AF lens driving subroutine is executed.

Here, the AF lens driving module (not shown) will be explained. This lens drive module controls the drive of the AF lens using counter interrupts and timer interrupts. The counter interrupt is generated by the encoder (ENC).
) (FIG. 3), a timer interrupt is generated when a pulse indicating driving of the AF lens is input, and a timer interrupt is generated when there is no next counter interrupt within a certain period of time after a counter interrupt is performed. Then, by this timer interrupt, it is detected that the lens has reached the terminal end (infinite end or nearest end). Also, this module sets a lens driving flag (LMVF) before driving, and when driving is completed, the flag (L) is set by a counter interrupt or a timer interrupt. This module resets and returns VF.

Returning to the flowchart in Figure 11, step (#160
) Continue the explanation. In step (#160), a timer interrupt is enabled, and in the next step (#165), a timer interrupt waits for a flag (LEEDF) indicating that the lens has reached the end to be set. This flag (
If LEEDF) is set, the counter that counts the amount N of lens extension from the infinity position is reset, assuming that the lens is retracted to the infinity position, the above flag (LEEDF) is reset, and the process returns. (
Step #170. #175).

Returning to the flowchart in Figure 1'0, step (#41)
) Continue the explanation. In step (#41), it is determined whether the lens is an old lens or not, and if it is not an old lens, step (#45
) to execute the zoom lens group renormalization subroutine. FIG. 12 shows a subroutine for renormalizing the zoom lens group. When the same subroutine is called,
First, interrupts (C8LEINT) caused by the lens select signal (C3LE) from the lens are prohibited, the lens communication (I) subroutine is executed, and data for the zoom lens group renormalization mode is output (step #180.11).
82) Next, lens communication (III) is repeated to check the lens condition at intervals of 10 m5 ec, and if the flag (WEDF) indicating the wide end is set, it is determined that zoom retraction is complete (steps #185 to #190).

After 10 m5 ec, lens communication (■) is executed to input all data of the lens, the interrupt request (C3LEINT) from the lens is permitted, and the process returns (steps #192 to #198).

Here, the lens communication (I) and (DI) subroutines used in the above processing will be explained.

First, FIG. 30 shows a subroutine for lens communication (1). When the subroutine is called, it sets data indicating the mode (I) and sets the terminal (C8LE) to “'Low.”
``For the level, perform 2-byte serial communication (serial input/output) to determine the type of body and lens (steps #1000 to #1012), then 1-byte data to indicate the mode (I). is serially output to the lens, and then 2-byte body status data that instructs zoom lens group renormalization is serially output to the lens, and the terminal (C3LE) is returned as "High" level (steps #1015 to #1020). .

Next, FIG. 32 shows a subroutine for lens communication (III). When the same subroutine is called, the mode (I
Set the data indicating [l] and connect the terminal (C3LE) to °
2-byte serial communication (serial input/output) to determine the type of body and lens as “Low” level
(Steps #1040 to #1045). next,
Serially output 1 byte of data to the lens to indicate the mode (Ill), then input 2 bytes of data to indicate the lens status, and set the terminal (C3LE) to °“High.”
''' level (step #1048~
#1055).

Returning to the flowchart in Figure 10, step (#41)
The case where the lens is determined to be an old lens will be explained.

If it is determined in step (#41) that the lens is an old lens, the process proceeds to step (#50), and it is determined whether or not the photographing preparation switch (Sl) is turned on. Shooting preparation switch (Sl)
is not turned on, proceed to step (#63) and execute a subroutine to determine the wide field of view mode, and then turn off the power supply control terminal (PWI) (PN2) to turn off the power supply transistors (Tri) (Tr2). “Lo
w'” level, and the power supply control terminal (PWO) is set to “Low” to stop the operation of the DC/DC converter (DD).
” level (steps #63 to #70).
After that, it enters the sleeve state (stop state).On the other hand, if it is determined in step (#50) that the imaging preparation switch (Sl) is turned on, the process advances to step (#52) and low-contrast scanning is prohibited. In step (#55), the 5LON subroutine described below is executed.In step (#60), it is determined whether or not the flag (SIONF) is set. If there is, return to step (#55),
If not set, proceed to step (#63).

Here, the flag (SIONF) is the shooting preparation switch (
This is a flag that is set while the switch (Sl) is turned on or when more than 5 seconds have not elapsed since it was turned off.

In an interrupt (SIINT) that occurs when the photographing preparation switch (Sl) is turned on after being turned off, processing from step (#52) is executed. Also, a lens interrupt (C8LEINT) occurs when an interrupt signal is input from the lens to the interrupt terminal (LEINT).
Now, a flag (C3LEF) indicating that there has been an interruption from the lens is set in step (#75), and the processing from step (#52) is executed.

Here, the subroutine for determining the wide field of view mode in step (#63) is shown in FIG. When this subroutine is called, in step (#200) the wide vinyl switch (SilU), which indicates whether the wide field of view mode is enabled or disabled, is turned on.
Determine whether or not it is N. When the wide view switch (S, u) is not turned on, the flag (WWF) indicating that wide view mode is enabled is reset,
The display of the photographed frame is turned off and the process returns (steps #220 and #225). Also, even if the wide view switch (S,, J) is turned on, the current focal length f
When 1.4x of 7 is larger than the longest focal length of the lens f1.8, it is impossible to zoom at 1.4x, so wide field mode is disabled (WWF = O) and the shooting frame is displayed. is also turned off (step #205.
#220. #225). On the other hand, step (#200)
(#205), wide view switch (S, u) is turned on, 1.4xf, ≦f. If it is judged as 8, set the flag (WVF) and enable wide field of view mode (
WWF=1), the photographed frame is displayed on the finder, and the process returns (steps #210 and #215).

Next, FIG. 14 shows the 5LON subroutine of step (#55) in FIG. When this subroutine is called, first a flag (SIO) IF) indicating that this subroutine has been passed is set, and an interrupt (SIIN
T) is prohibited and the feeding transistor (Tri) (Tr2)
To turn on the power supply control terminals (Pken1) (PW2)
``high'' level and executes the wide-field zoom determination subroutine (Fig. 13) (steps #300 to #
308).

Here, the reason why the wide-field zoom judgment is performed every time in step (#308) (the reason why it is performed every time the SLON subroutine is called) is that while the shooting preparation switch (Sl) is ON or OFF. This is to accommodate even if the wide view switch (S, u) is turned ON10FF before 5 seconds or more have passed since

After completing the wide-field zoom determination in step (1308),
A flag (
C3LEF) (step #310). Then, a flag (C3LEF
) is set, the process proceeds to step (#315) to execute a subroutine for lens INT control, and then proceeds to step ($1332).

Here, the lens I that controls the interruption from the lens
FIG. 16 shows the NT control subroutine. When this subroutine is called, it resets the flag (C3LEF) indicating an interrupt from the lens, and performs lens communication (■) to input all lens data (step #
530. #532). Then, in step (#534), the flag (RQZMF) included in the lens status data (Table 2) sent from the lens in this communication is determined. This flag (RQZMF) is a flag indicating that the lens requests permission from the body for power zooming, and if it is not set, the process returns as is. On the other hand, if the flag (RQZMF) is set, 10m
After waiting for 5ec, execute lens communication (■) to transfer power zoom permission to the lens and return (
Steps #534 to #538).

Here, FIG. 37 shows a subroutine for lens communication (■) used in the above processing. When this subroutine is called, it first sets data indicating the mode (■), sets the terminal (C3LE) to the "Low" level, and performs 2-byte serial communication (serial input/output) to determine the type of body and lens. ) (step #1140
~#1145). Next, 1 byte of data is serially output to the lens to indicate the mode (■), and then a flag (M
2-byte body status data (ZOKF) set
Table 3) is serially output to the lens, and the terminal (C3LE)
Return with “High” level (step $1
1148~#1152).

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the step (#3
The case where it is determined in 10) that the flag (C8LEF) is not set will be explained. Flag (C8LEF
) is not set, the process proceeds to step (#320) and it is determined whether or not the photographing preparation switch (Sl) is turned on. If the shooting preparation switch (Sl) is not turned on, power zoom is in progress or the switch (Sl) is turned on.
Since the state is within 5 seconds after FF, lens communication (■
) to input the lens data. Step #325
), proceed to step (#332). On the other hand, step (
If it is determined that the switch (Sl) is turned on in #320), it is ready for shooting, so by executing the AF control subroutine, the AF lens is adjusted for distance measurement calculation and focusing. Perform driving (step #
330).

A subroutine for this AF control is shown in FIG.

When this subroutine is called, first, the subroutine TR8 is executed to notify the in-lens microcomputer (μC2) of the CCD integration start timing and to transfer the target focal length ft to the lens (step #450).

This subroutine of TR8 is a subroutine that communicates data with the lens side only during auto-wide or when zooming by 1.4 times in wide-field mode, so it returns without executing anything at first. Next, the CCD in the focus detection light receiving circuit (AFcv) performs integration (charge accumulation), and after the CCD integration is completed, the data converted to a digital signal is input (data dump), and the lens variable data (focus RCV to input (data that changes depending on distance)
Execute the subroutine (step #452. #4
55. #460).

However, if communication notifying the CCD integration start timing is not performed in the TR8 subroutine, this RC
The V subroutine also returns without executing anything. This RCV subroutine will be described later together with the TR8 subroutine.

After returning from the RCV subroutine, step (
6465), a distance measurement calculation is performed to calculate the defocus amount. The subroutine for this distance measurement calculation is shown in FIG. 19. When the subroutine is called, first, step (#600)
A correlation calculation (=) is executed, but since this phase opening calculation is not the gist of the present invention, its explanation will be omitted. After performing this correlation calculation, proceed to step (#602), where a multi-point algorithm (for example, select the closest subject ), and if all islands have low contrast (contrast necessary for detecting the focus state is insufficient), focus detection is disabled, and if at least one island has low contrast, focus detection is enabled. It is determined in step (#605) whether or not the focus cannot be detected. If the focus cannot be detected, a flag indicating low contrast (L
CONF) and return (step #60
6). On the other hand, if it is determined that focus detection is possible, it is determined in step (4608) whether or not a flag (LSNF) indicating that low contrast scanning is in progress is set, and if it is set, it is determined that the AF lens is being driven. Therefore, after executing the lens stop subroutine (step #609),
Proceed to step (#610). Here, the lens stop subroutine (detailed flowchart is not shown) controls the motor drive circuit (MDI) to stop driving the AF lens, and then resets the flag (LMVF). As a result of the determination in the step (#608), the flag (LSN
If F) is not set, step (#
610).

In step (#610), the flag (LCD) IF) is reset, and then the defocus amount is calculated, and the defocus amount is multiplied by a coefficient KL for converting the defocus amount into the number of AF lens drive pulses. , find the number of AF lens driving pulses N1 (steps #615 to $1618
). Next, in step (#620), it is determined whether the absolute value of the defocus amount is within the focusing range. Here, if the absolute value of the defocus amount is within 200 μm, it is considered to be within the focusing range. As a result of this determination, if it is within the focus range, a flag (AFEF) indicating the in-focus state is set, and if it is outside the focus range, the flag (AFEF) is reset and the process returns (step #625.6628).

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 15, the explanation will be continued. After returning from the distance measurement calculation subroutine (step #465), it is determined in step (1147B) whether a flag (AWNF) indicating that auto-wide is in progress is set. If this flag (AWNF) is set, the AW processing subroutine is executed in step (#480), but at first, the flag (AWNF) is set.
is not set, so continue with step (#48)
Proceed to 5). In step (6485), after the release switch (S2) is turned ○N in wide-field mode (hereinafter r
It is determined whether or not a flag (82ONF) indicating that sea fencing is being executed ("after 52ON") is set. If the flag (32ONF) is set, the routine executed in wide field mode (
Step #490. #495) and returns, but since the flag (82ONF) is not set during the first distance measurement, the process proceeds to step (#500) and the flag (LCONF) indicating the low contrast state is set. Determine whether or not there is. This flag (LCONF
) is set, the low contrast processing after step (#501) is executed, but at this point it is assumed that it is not set and the process proceeds to step (#520).

In step (#520), it is determined whether a flag (AFEF) indicating that the camera is in focus is set. Then, if the flag (AFEF) is set, the focusing subroutine (step #525) is executed, and if the flag (AFEF) is reset, the out-of-focus subroutine (step #525) is executed.
528) and return.

Here, the above-mentioned focusing/out-of-focus subroutine will be explained.

First, the focusing subroutine is shown in FIG.

When the same subroutine is called, the release switch (
Flag (S2INF) to disable ON of S2)
(Refer to step #352 in Figure 14).
Turn on the focus display in the finder and return (steps #630 and #635).

Next, FIG. 21 shows an out-of-focus subroutine.

When the same subroutine is called, the release switch (
Flag (S2INF) to disable ON of S2)
and display the focus in the viewfinder. FF (
Step #640. #642). Next, distance measurement calculation (
After executing the lens drive subroutine according to the number N1 of AP lens drive pulses calculated in step #465 in FIG.
645. #648) Then, while repeatedly determining whether or not the flag (LMVF) indicating that the AP lens is being driven has been reset at a fixed time interval, wait for the AF lens to stop, and then If stops, return (step #650. #655
), Here, the lens drive subroutine (detailed flowchart is not shown) in step (#645) is as follows:
This corresponds to the drive I subroutine (Fig. 41) in driving the zoom lens group, which will be described later, and after this subroutine sets the flag (LMVF) and sets the drive amount N1 or N, the AF lens is Driving (energization of the AF motor (■1)) is started. As described above, the flag (LMVF) is reset by a counter interrupt or a timer interrupt that controls the drive when the drive of a predetermined AF lens is completed.

Returning to the flowchart in Figure 15, step (#500
), it is determined that the flag (LCONF) indicating the low contrast state is set.

If this flag (LCONF) is set, a flag (S2INF) is set to disallow release (step #501), and a flag (LSINF) indicating low contrast scan prohibition is set. In step (#502), the flag (LSINF
) has not been set yet, execute the low contrast scan subroutine (step #505) and return.

Here, the above low-contrast scan subroutine is executed in the 22nd
As shown in the figure. This subroutine is a routine for focusing on a subject that has low contrast because the AF lens position is far away from the lens position where the subject is focused.

When this subroutine is called, first, it is determined in step (#670) whether or not a flag (LSNF) indicating that low contrast scanning is in progress is set.

Initially, it is not set, so proceed to step (#672), set the flag (LSNF), set the lens drive amount N to a large positive value NLG, execute the above lens drive subroutine, and return. (Step #67
2~#678). A low contrast scan is started by such an operation, but here, during the low contrast scan,
Mainly, only the operation of AF control (control for automatically adjusting focus) will be considered.

By driving the lens at the start of the low-contrast scan, the next distance measurement will be performed while driving the AF lens in the extending direction. Then, the next distance measurement calculation (step #4 in Fig. 15) is performed.
65), if focus detection becomes possible, at that point A
After stopping the driving of the F lens and determining whether the lens is in focus or out of focus, sea fencing for focusing is performed (steps #520 to #528 in FIG. 15).

On the other hand, if the next distance measurement results in a low contrast determination, the low contrast scan subroutine is executed again (
Steps #501 to $1505 in FIG. 15).

When the low contrast scan subroutine is executed again, the flag (LSNF) is set, so A
Distance measurement is repeated while driving the AF lens in the extending direction until the flag (LEEDF) indicating the end of the F lens is set (steps #670 and #680).

Then, in step (#670), the flag (LEEDF) is set.
If it is determined that the force τ is set, it is determined in step (#690) whether it is the near end or the infinitely far end. At first, the AF lens is driven in the extending direction (near direction), so
If the determination is Yes, the process proceeds to step (#692), sets the lens drive amount N to a large negative value -NLQ, and starts lens drive (step #695). With this drive, distance measurement is repeated while driving the AF lens in the retraction direction (infinity direction), but the mouth-con state continues, and in step (#690) it reaches the infinity end (none at the near end\). When it is determined, a flag (LS
NF) and sets a flag (LSINF) indicating low contrast scan inhibition to complete the execution of this low contrast scan (Step $1700. #705)
.

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 15, the explanation will be continued. As mentioned above, in the low contrast scan, the focus detector t (LC
ONF=1), step (#501) → ($1502) → (#505) until the AF lens reaches the infinity end.
), step (#55) → (#60) →
The loop (#55) (FIG. 10) is repeatedly executed.

If focus detection is not possible even after the low contrast scan is completed, it is determined in step (#502) that the flag (LSINF) indicating low contrast scan inhibition is set, and the process proceeds to step (#508). , a flag indicating auto-wide prohibition (AWINF), and a flag indicating auto-wide operation (AWNF) are set (steps #508 and #510).
. Initially, neither flag is set, so A
The W start subroutine (step #515) is executed and the process returns.

FIG. 23 shows a subroutine for starting AW (starting auto wide). When the same subroutine is called, it is determined whether the switch (S9.) for switching the enable/disable of auto wide mode is ON, and
If F, flag indicating auto wide prohibition (AWINF)
Set and return (step #720. #7
25). On the other hand, in step (#720) the switch (sA
, ) is turned on, the target focal length ft is set to 1/2 of the current focal length f, and the target focal length f and the shortest focal length of the zoom lens f, 1. (Steps #730 and #732). and,
fl〈f,,. If so, the target focal length ft is reset to the shortest focal length f, . . . and then the process proceeds to step (#735), where ft≧f1. . If so, just step (#735)
Proceed to.

In step (#735), a flag (AWNF) indicating that auto-wide is in progress is set, and then the process returns.

The auto wide sea fence will be explained below.

This auto-wide sea fence is a sea fence for obtaining the contrast necessary for detecting the focus state by zooming to the wide side when the image magnification is too large and the contrast is low. This auto wide sea fence is also similar to the low-con scan mentioned above.
AF control will mainly be explained. Once auto-wide is started by the above AW start subroutine (step #515), in the next AF control, the flag (AWNF) indicating that auto-wide is in progress is set, and the subroutine of TR3 (step #450) is called.

Here, the subroutine of this TR3 is shown in FIG.

When this subroutine is called, first, a flag (I
TGTF) is set or not in step (#5
50). If this flag (ITGTF) is set, lens communication (TV) is executed to notify the lens of the CCD integration start timing, and a flag (RCVF) is set to indicate that lens data that changes due to zooming is to be received. and returns (steps $1555, 4568). On the other hand, step (#550)
If it is determined in step (6560) that the flag (ITGTF) is not set, the flag (A
WNF) is set.

If this flag (AWNF) is set, the zoom drive speed is set, lens communication (V) is executed to transfer data indicating the CCD integration start timing and the target focal length f to the lens, and the lens A flag (RCVF) indicating data reception is set and the process returns (steps #563, #565, and #568). Through this communication, the lens side starts calculation of lens data and zooming. On the other hand, the flag (ITGTF) and (A
WNF) is not set, the process returns without executing lens communication. In addition, step (#5
The reason why the zoom drive speed is set on the body in step 63) is to set the zoom speed according to the shooting conditions.

Next, FIG. 18 shows an RCV subroutine for receiving lens data that changes due to zooming. When this subroutine is called, first, it is determined in step (#570) whether or not a flag (RCVF) indicating reception of lens data is set.

If this flag (RCVF) is set, lens communication (Vl) is executed to receive lens data,
Reset the flag (RCVF) and return (S
Step #575. #580), on the other hand, the flag (
If RCVF) is not set, lens communication (V
Return without executing l).

Here, the lens communication (■) used in the above processing,
The subroutines (V) and (VI) will be explained together.

A subroutine for lens communication (IV) is shown in FIG. 33, a subroutine for lens communication (V) is shown in FIG. 34, and a subroutine for lens communication (Vl) is shown in FIG.

When each of these subroutines is called, the respective modes (IV), (V), and (Vl) are first set.
Set the data indicating “Lo” to the terminal (C3LE).
w” level, performs 2-byte serial input/output to determine the type of body and lens, and then serially outputs 1-byte data to the lens to indicate each mode (steps #1060 to #1060). 1068°#
1080~#1088. #1100~#110
8). Next, in lens communication (IV), 2-byte body state data indicating that the transfer is to notify the CCD integration start timing is serially output (step #1).
070), in lens communication (V), in addition to the 2-byte body status data similar to lens communication (IV), 1-byte target focal length ft data is serially output (step #10
90. #1092), set the terminal (C3LE) to 'High'
Level and return (step #1075, 11
1095). In addition, in lens communication (Vl), 2-byte lens state data (lens state data at the time when the lens communication (Vl) was executed) and 4-byte data that changes due to zooming (the lens state data at the time when the lens communication (Vl) was executed) are stored. Lens communication (IV) or lens data (which changes depending on the focal length at the time of 1 (V)) is input serially, and the terminal (C3LE) is set to the "'High" level and returned (steps #1110 to # 1115).

Return to the flowchart in Figure 15 and step (#45)
The explanation continues from 0). While the flag (AWNF) indicating that auto wide is in progress is set (Yo, T
In the R5 subroutine (step #450), data indicating the CCD integration start timing and target focal length ft are transferred to the lens via lens communication (V), and after CCD integration and data dump are performed, lens communication is performed in the RCV subroutine. (Vl) G2) J Input the lens data at the start of CCD integration and execute distance measurement calculation (step #
450-6465). At the next step (#478), the flag (AWNF) is set and Is displayed, so it is not OK.
s, the process advances to step (1480) and executes a subroutine of AW processing (auto wide processing).

A subroutine for this AW processing is shown in FIG. When this subroutine is called, first, the lens communication (
In the lens status data received from the lens by Vl), a flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven
It is determined in step ($1750) whether or not is set. If this flag (ZMVF) is not set, it is determined that zooming is complete (focus cannot be detected even if auto-wide is executed), and the flag (ZMVF) indicating that auto-wide is in progress is determined.
AWNF), sets a flag (AWINF) indicating auto wide prohibition, and sets a flag (ITGT) that instructs the transfer of data that informs the CCD integration start timing.
F) and return (step #750.
$1770~#780).

On the other hand, in step (11750) the flag (ZMV
If it is determined that F) is set, zooming has not yet been completed, so step ( #755). As a result of the determination in step (#755), the flag (LC
ONF) is set, it means that focus cannot be detected, and the next distance measurement is repeated. On the other hand, the flag (LCONF)
If the focus is not set, the focus can now be detected.
Executes lens communication (I[) that outputs data (body status data) that instructs the stop of the zoom lens group to the lens, and repeatedly executes lens communication (III) that inputs the lens status at fixed time intervals while zooming. Wait for the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the lens group is being driven to be reset (
Steps #755 to #768). Lens communication (III)
If the flag (ZMVF) is reset in the lens status data received from the lens, it is determined that the zoom lens group has stopped, and in order to end auto wide,
Reset flag (AWNF), flag (AWINF)
Set the flag (ITGTF) and return (steps #770 to #780). In addition, step (#780) 7 - A flag (ITGTF) that instructs the transfer of data that informs the CCD integration start timing.
The reason for setting is that TR3 and R are set at the end of zooming.
CV subroutine (step #450. #460)
This is to input the lens data at the point t when the zoom lens group stops.

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 15, the explanation will be continued. During auto wide, perform the above AW process (step #480)
While performing focus detection, step (#501) → (#502) → (11508) → (
Step (#55) → (#510)
60) → (#55) (FIG. 10) is repeatedly executed to repeat distance measurement. If focus detection becomes possible during auto wide, the zoom lens group is stopped during AW processing (step #480), the normal distance measurement is resumed, and sea fencing for focusing is executed (
Steps #520-1528).

In the AF sub-control subroutine (Fig. 15) explained above, if the flag (32ONF) indicating that sea fencing after 82ON is being executed is set, the determination in step (#485) is Yes. The process proceeds to step (#490), but since this sea fence is executed only in wide-field mode, it will be described later.

In this section, we will summarize the effects obtained by executing the auto wide sea fence. As shown in Figure 9(a), if the image magnification is too large and the subject is out of the distance measurement islands (A) to (D), zoom to the wide side and perform distance measurement while reducing the image magnification. When this is repeated, the subject enters the distance measurement island and the focus becomes detectable, as shown in FIG. 2(b). Also, when photographing a person's face (not shown), if the magnification is too high, the distance measurement island will cover the cheek, etc., resulting in low contrast and inability to detect the focus, but it is recommended to zoom slightly to the wide side. In some cases, the contrast in the gait can be obtained, making it possible to detect the focus. In addition, the auto wide sea fence has a focal length f of the target to be zoomed.
1 is determined taking into account the current focal length f, (in this example, the target focal length f is set to 1/2 of the current focal length f), so it is possible to Even if the focus cannot be detected, there will be no problem such as the angle of view changing too much (for example, the focal length changes from 200 mm to 28 mm) when zooming is completed, giving the photographer a sense of discomfort.

This concludes the explanation of the auto wide sea fence, and the first
Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 4, the explanation will continue from the point after returning from the AF sub-control subroutine (step #330).

When the AF sub-control subroutine turns, the film sensitivity SV and the subject brightness value BVQ measured with open metering are displayed.
is input, and the exposure calculation subroutine (FIG. 25) is executed (steps #332 to #11338). When this subroutine is called, first the exposure value EV is determined as EVJV! I
+AVs+ sv+= Yori request mel. = Co-C-1A
Ve is the aperture value. From this exposure value EV, shutter speed TV and aperture value A are determined based on a predetermined AE program diagram.
Find V by calculation and return (step #790
．． #795). Here, the explanation and illustration of the AE program diagram will be omitted since it has no direct relation to the present invention.

When the exposure calculation is completed, the process proceeds to step (#340) to execute the display AE subroutine (FIG. 26).

In this subroutine, the display control circuit (DISPC) serially outputs data indicating shutter speed, aperture value AV, auto wide switch (Saw) 0N10FF, and enable/disable of the wide field of view mode. ), based on these data)
Display section (DISh) on the body (display section in Fig. 2)
14)) and the display section (DISPu) in the viewfinder (
(Fig. 5) & Two predetermined displays are performed (Step #800.
$1805). The content of this display is not directly related to the present invention, so a description thereof will be omitted.

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 14, the explanation will be continued. After completing the above-mentioned AE amount relationship display, it is determined in step (#345) whether or not the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven is set. do. As a result of this determination, the flag (ZMVF) is set and the I-Z f1 power zoom is in progress, so no determination is made regarding exposure control after step (#350), and the process proceeds to step (#388) where the timer ( After resetting T2), restart and return. This timer (T2) is a timer that continues to display on the body and in the viewfinder for 5 seconds after the shooting preparation switch (Sl) is turned off or J<low zoom operation is stopped.

On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step (#345), flag (2
If MVP) is not set, step (#350
), and it is determined whether a flag (82ONF) indicating that the sea fencing after 82ON is being executed is set. As a result of this judgment, the flag (32ONF
) is set, the process advances to step (#400) and performs exposure control processing, but the steps after step (#400) will be described later. Initially, the flag (82ONF) is not set, so proceed to step (#352).
It is determined whether a flag (S2INF) indicating that the release switch (S2) is invalid is set. This flag (S2INF) is set in the in-focus/out-of-focus determination subroutine (FIG. 15), and is set when the focus is out of focus or when the contrast is low, and release is not permitted. That is, if this flag (S2INF) is set, the release switch (S2) is set to 0N.
The process proceeds to step (#385) without determining 10FF, and determines whether or not the photographing preparation switch (Sl) is turned on. As a result of this judgment, the switch (Sl) is turned ON.
If the state continues, it means that preparations are being made for shooting, so after resetting the timer (T2), restart the process and return (step 1388). If the switch (S
1) is in the OFF state, it is determined in step (#390) whether 5 seconds or more have elapsed since the timer (T2) was started. As a result of this judgment, if it is within 5 seconds, a flag (SIO
NF) without resetting, and executes the 5IOH subroutine again (step #60 in Figure 10).
#55) On the other hand, if more than 5 seconds have elapsed, it is determined that the photographer has lost the intention to take pictures, and the 5IO
The flag (SIONF) is reset to prevent the H subroutine from being executed any further (step #42
0). Then, in order to enable the next switch (Sl) to be turned on or to start from the power zoom (execution of the 5LON subroutine), interrupt (SIINT) and (C3L
EINT) and return (Step #425
).

As a result of the determination in step (#352), a flag (S2INF) indicating that the release switch ($2) is invalid is set.
If not set, the process advances to step (#355) and it is determined whether the release switch (S2) is turned on. As a result of this determination, if the switch (S2) is not turned on, step (
#385) Execute the subsequent processes.

On the other hand, if the switch (S2) is turned on, step (
1362) and set the interrupt (C8LE) to disable power zoom interrupts from the lens.
INT) and sets a flag (S2ONF) to indicate that sea fencing is to be executed after 52ON (step #365), proceed to step ($1370) and set the flag (S2ONF) to indicate that the wide field of view mode is in effect. WWF) is set. As a result of this judgment,
If the flag (WVF) is not set, the steps after step (#400) are executed to perform normal exposure control, but the steps after step (#400) will be explained in conjunction with the explanation of wide-field mode. Let me explain.

As a result of the determination in step (#370), the flag (w
VF) is set, before zooming to 1.4x, first change the shooting frame displayed in the viewfinder to ○FFL and the wide-field mode flag (jlVF).
) and execute the 1.4x zoom subroutine (steps #375 to #380). Here, the reason for resetting the flag (WWF) is when the release switch (S2) is turned on one after another. This is to prevent the zoom from continuing to increase by 1.4 times.

FIG. 27 shows the subroutine for the 1.4x zoom described above. When this subroutine is called, first, the current focal length f of the lens is determined. Multiply by 1.4 and set as the target focal length ft (step #810).Next, set a zoom speed suitable for zooming in wide field mode, and set these target focal length ft and zoom speed. Lens communication (I
Execute the subroutine of X) (steps #810 to #
815).

A subroutine for this lens communication (IX) is shown in FIG. When the subroutine is called, first the mode (
IX), and set the terminal (C3LE) to “
As a 'Low' level, 2-byte serial input/output is performed to determine the type of body and lens (steps #1160 to #1165).Next, 1-byte data is sent to the lens to indicate the mode (■). Serial output of 2 bytes of data to notify the body status, and 1 to transfer the target focal length ft.
After serially outputting the byte data to the lens, the terminal (C3LR) is set to the "High" level and returned (steps #1168 to #1175).

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 27, the explanation will be continued. After transmitting the target focal length ft through lens communication (IX), lens communication (m) to check the lens condition is performed at 10m5e.
The process is repeated at intervals of c until the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven is reset (steps #818 to #825). This flag (ZMV
F) is reset, the zoom lens is now at the focal length f. It is determined that the process has zoomed from to the target focal length ft and stopped, sets a flag (ITGTF) instructing input of lens data changed during zooming, and returns (step #828).

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the explanation will be continued. When the 1.4x zoom subroutine in step (#380) returns, the 1.4x zooming has been completed, so in order to improve the distance measurement accuracy after zooming, the sea fence ( Steps #330~) are executed.

Here, the change in the amount of deflux due to 1.4 times zooming will be explained. The relationship between defocus amount and focal length is expressed by Newton's approximation formula: x-D=f2...
■It becomes. However, X: Defocus amount from infinity [mm] D=Distance to the subject [mm] f: Focal length of the photographing lens [mm].

Here, when zooming 1.4 times, the focal length f" becomes f
' = 1.4f, so replacing f in formula ■ with f゛ gives x-D = (1,4f)2 = 1.96f2
... becomes ■. Therefore, considering that the distance to the subject is constant, the amount of defocus X from infinity is approximately doubled.

In order to prevent such a deterioration in focus accuracy (distance measurement accuracy), sea fencing for remeasurement of distance is performed after step (#330). When the AF control subroutine (Fig. 15) is called again during this distance remeasurement sea fence, the CCD
Since the flag (ITGTF) instructing the transfer of data that informs the integration start timing is set, lens communication (IV) is executed in the subroutine of TR8 in step (#450).

After CCD integration and data dumping, lens communication (VI) is performed to input lens data changed by zooming, and distance measurement calculation is performed using the lens data (steps #450 to #465). ). Next, the process proceeds to step (#478), but since the flag (AWNF) indicating that auto-wide is in progress is not set, the process directly proceeds to step (#485). 82O
A flag indicating that it is a sea fence after N (32O
NF) is set, so step (#485)
Then, it is determined Yes and proceeds to step (#49Q).
In step (#490), it is determined whether or not the remeasured distance is in low contrast, and if it is not in low contrast, the process returns directly, and if it is in low contrast, the S20-con subroutine is executed (step #495).

This S20-con subroutine is shown in FIG.

When the same subroutine is called, the number of AF lens drive pulses N1 is set to O and returns (step $830).
. This indicates that the AP lens is not driven during release. If the focus can be detected, the AF lens is driven during the release to improve focusing accuracy, but if the focus cannot be detected, the AF lens is not driven during the release.

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the explanation will be continued after returning from the AP control subroutine (step #330) at sea fence for distance measurement again. After re-measurement,
Since the brightness within the screen has also changed by zooming up to 1.4 times, after returning from the AF open control subroutine, light measurement is performed again and the information is displayed (steps #332 to #340). At this point, the flag (82ONF) is already set, so the subsequent step (#350) is determined to be Yes, and the step (#350) is determined to be Yes.
400) to start exposure control.

When the exposure control sea fence is started, first, in order to not accept power zoom interruptions from the lens, interrupts (C3LEINT) are prohibited and the flag (82ONF) is reset (step #400). ,
#405) Then, an exposure control subroutine is executed (step #410).

This exposure control subroutine is the 29th FI! Shown in J.

When this subroutine is called, it first outputs a predetermined control signal to control the release (step #
840). As a result, the locking part (not shown) is released, and
A release operation such as mirror up is performed. Next, the aperture is stopped down to the aperture indicated by the control aperture value AV (step $1845), and the AF lens is driven during the release according to the defocus amount at the final distance measurement, and the AF lens stops. (Step #85)
0), Next, in step (#855), wait until the mirror up is completed, and when the mirror up is completed, the first curtain (first curtain) of the focal plane shutter is run (step #860). Then, an exposure time counting timer (T3) is started and the process waits for the actual exposure time Ts corresponding to the shutter speed TV to elapse (steps #860 to #870). 2 after the exposure time Ts has elapsed.
Run the curtain (second curtain) and return after waiting the time for the second curtain to complete (steps #875 and #880).
.

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 14, the explanation will be continued. When returning from the above exposure control subroutine (step #410), the camera winds up one frame for the next shot, waits for 5 seconds, and resets the flag (SIONF) to indicate the end of shooting (step #415
~#420). After that, press the next shooting preparation switch (Sl)
In order to enable interrupts by turning on or power zooming, interrupts (SIINT) and (C3LEINT) are permitted and the process returns (step #425).Here, the effects of the wide field of view mode will be summarized.

First, the first effect is that the photographing frame (FD2) is displayed inside the viewfinder, so it is possible to observe a wider area than the photographing area (FIG. 5).

As a result, it becomes easier to grasp the scene to be photographed, and especially when photographing a moving object, tracking becomes easy and convenient. Furthermore, even in the case of a high eye point, the entire imaging area can be observed. Further, if the photographing frame (FD2) is constructed of a member such as a liquid crystal display that can turn on/off the display, the wide field of view mode can be selected when necessary or according to the photographer's preference.

Returning to the flowchart in Figure 10, step (#20)
The case where it is determined that the main switch (S force) is not in the ○N state will be explained. Main switch (Sh) is O
If it is not in the N state, proceed to step (#80), disable interrupts other than those caused by turning on the main switch (Sffl) (INT to S), and proceed to step (#85).
It is determined whether the flag (R5TF) indicating battery installation is set. If the flag (R3TF) is not set, this flow is assumed to have been executed by turning off the main switch (Sl), a flag (SMOFF) indicating this is set, and the AF lens renormalization subroutine is executed (step #87). . #90) ,
In this case, the AF lens is retracted to the most retracted position. This point has already been explained, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.Next, in step (#92) it is determined whether or not the lens used is an old lens, and if it is not an old lens, the zoom lens group renormalization subroutine (step #1
00) is executed. By executing the AF lens renormalization and zoom lens group renormalization subroutines, A
The F lens and the zoom lens group move to the most retracted position, and the size (length) of the entire camera including the lenses becomes the smallest. Then, the lens communication (m) subroutine is executed, and based on the data input from the lens,
Determine whether or not the body side can enter the sleeve state (steps #105 and #110). When the body side enters the sleeve state, the zoom motor (M3) on the lens side
) is cut off. Therefore, when performing zoom retraction control on the lens side, it must not enter the sleeve state, so step (#115)
Wait for 5ec to elapse, return to step (#1゜5) and execute the lens communication (II+) subroutine again.
Repeat the determination in step (#110). When the zoom retraction control is completed on the lens side, step (#1
10), it is determined that it is OK to enter the sleeve state, and the power control terminal (PWI) ( PW2) °゛Low
” level, and further turn off the terminal (pwo) to turn off DC/DC':J,/bark (DD).
When set to "Low" level, interrupts other than interrupts (SMINT) caused by turning on the main switch (Sl, l) are prohibited and stopped, and the state enters the sleeve state U (stop state B).
Steps #120 to #130).

When the flag (R8TF) is set in step (#85), or when it is determined that the lens used is an old lens in step (1192), the process proceeds to step (#93), and the display indicates when the battery is installed. Flag (R8
TF). And step (#120)
Proceed to the following and enter the sleeve state (stop state).

This completes the explanation of the software for the in-body microcomputer (μC1), and next we will move on to the in-lens microcomputer (μC2).
Describe the software.

When the lens is not attached to the camera body, the lens attachment detection switch (SLE) shown in Figure 4 is ON.
The reset terminal of the microcomputer (μC2) inside the lens (
Since RE2) is maintained at "Low" level, the lens side circuit is not driven at all. When the lens is attached to the camera body, the lens attachment detection switch (SLE)
is turned OFF, and the reset terminal (RE2) is set to °' Lo.
A signal changing from w'' level to °'High'' level is input. As a result, the in-lens microcomputer (μC2) executes the reset routine shown in FIG. 39. In this reset routine, first, the ports and registers are reset (step #L5).

At this time, the APZ mode and sleeve are enabled.

Then, a zoom renormalization subroutine is executed (step #L15). Here, the APz mode is a mode in which the camera automatically zooms to a focal length instructed from the body.

FIG. 40 shows the subroutine for renormalizing the zoom lens group. When this subroutine is called, first, a flag (ZIF) indicating the zoom lens group retraction mode is set, and the zoom lens group retraction speed is set to the maximum speed v3. Then, a large value ZLQ is set as the driving amount, a flag (WDF) indicating zooming in the wide direction is set, and the driving amount subroutine is executed to drive the zoom lens group (steps #L30 to # L
40). This drive I subroutine will be described later. Next, in step (#L45), the process waits for a flag (TINTF) indicating that a timer interrupt has occurred to be set. This timer interrupt is an interrupt that occurs after the zoom lens group reaches the end.

Here, FIG. 41 shows the subroutine of the drive (2) described above. This drive amount subroutine is for the zoom motor (M3)
This is a subroutine that drives the zoom lens group according to (Fig. 4). When the intermediate subroutine is called, first the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven is
) set (step #L100), and
After setting flags for motor control and setting the drive amount (zoom drive pulse number) Δ2, start energizing the motor (M3) and return (steps #L110 to #
L120) This zoom lens group drive module (not shown because it is not directly related to the present invention) controls the zoom lens group drive using counter interrupts and timer interrupts, similar to the AF lens drive module described above. There is. In other words, the rotation amount of the zoom motor (M3) is detected by the zoom encoder (ENC3) (4th rM
) A counter interrupt occurs every time a pulse indicating the drive of the zoom lens group comes in, and this interrupt causes
Pulse driving is performed for 62 minutes while controlling the zoom speed.

After completing this 62 minute pulse drive, the zoom motor (M
3) Stop energizing and reset the flag (ZMVF). In addition, even if the zoom motor (3) is energized by the end of 62 minutes of pulse driving, the encoder (ENC3)
When the pulse is no longer generated, a timer interrupt is generated, and this interrupt determines that the end is reached, a subroutine for stopping the zoom lens group is executed, and after disabling the timer interrupt, a flag (TINTF) is set.

FIG. 42 shows the subroutine for stopping the zoom lens group described above. When this subroutine is called, it first outputs a stop signal to the motor drive circuit (Mn2) for 10m5ec (step 1L180), and then outputs a stop signal to the motor drive circuit (Mn2) for 10m5ec.
The F signal is output, the sleeve is enabled, the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom is being driven is reset, and the process returns (steps #L182 to #L187).

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 40, step (Mn45
), the zoom lens group drive stops and the timer interrupt flag (TI
NTF) is set, Y is set in step (Mn45).
If it is determined as es, the process advances to step (Mn50) and the flag (TINTF) is reset. Then, the flag (ZIF) indicating that zoom lens group retraction is in progress is reset and the process returns (step #L60).

Returning to the flowchart in FIG. 39, step (Mn20
) Continue the explanation. When the renormalization of the zoom lens group described above is completed, a display routine for displaying lens information is executed, and the timer (T) for maintaining the power supply is reset.
Restart it, wait for 10 seconds to elapse, and after 10 seconds, erase the display and stop (Step #L20
~#L24).

The above display routine is shown in FIG. 43. When the subroutine is called, the count value Zc of the zoom counter (ZC) that counts pulses from the zoom encoder (ENC3) is read. Then, from that value, determine the accurate current focal length f. Find its current focal length f. is displayed and the process returns (steps #L250 to #L260).

Next, processing during power zoom will be explained. If the microcomputer in the body (μC1) is stopped and the microcomputer in the lens (μC2) is stopped, or if the old body is used and the microcomputer in the lens (μC2) is stopped, the operation ring (zoom ring) When the operation (80) is performed, an F/ZINT interrupt routine for power zooming is executed. This interrupt routine! It is shown in Figure 44.

When an F/ZINT interrupt occurs, the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens first sets the terminal (C8LE) to “low” for an instant.
level and interrupt the body (step #
L400), and then restarts after resetting the timer (TA) and waits for the timer (TA) to measure time t (steps #L410 to tlL415).
Here, the reason why the timer (TA) waits for the time t is to determine on the body side whether or not the lens is an old type. If the lens is not an old type, after the above interrupt to the body, the body sets the terminal (C8LE) to "L" for data communication (lens communication).

, I=Nilevel, and in response to this, the lens responds to O, which will be described later.
8 interrupt is taken and another flow is executed before the timer (TA) finishes timing the time t. However, when the main switches (S, l) on the body side are OFF, the above data communication (lens communication) is not performed, and
Data communication (lens communication) is also possible with the old body.
Therefore, even if the terminal (C3LE) is brought to - instantaneous "Low" level in step (Mn400), C5
No interrupt is generated and the timer (T^) finishes counting time t1. Then, when it is determined in step (#L415) that the timer (TA) has finished counting the time t, the timer (TA) is stopped and interrupt F/Z INT caused by operation of the operation ring (8o) is prohibited. , and stop (steps #L417 to #L420).

Next, processing when a C8 interrupt occurs will be explained.

When a signal changing from the "old GH" level to the "Low" level is transmitted from the body to the lens terminal (C8LE), the microcomputer (μC2) in the lens outputs the C8 signal as shown in FIG.
Execute interrupt routine. In this routine, first, the F/F/
Disable ZINT interrupts and perform 2-byte serial communication (serial communication) in response to the clock from the body. Based on this communication data, the body determines whether it is an old body or not. If it is an old body, it performs 6-byte serial communication to send lens data to the body side, and sends lens data to the terminal (C8L).
Wait for the signal to E) to reach °“old gh” level,
“Stop when it reaches H1ghll level (step #L
565 to #L575), Since this embodiment describes a new body, a flowchart of the in-body microcomputer (μC1) corresponding to this communication is not shown, but these steps (#L565) to (#L575)
), the new lens can also be used with the old body. On the other hand, if it is determined in step (#L565) that the body is not the old body, data indicating the communication mode is input from the body through 1-byte serial communication (serial input), and the communication mode is determined (step #L565). L585. #L590), and executes the following processes (processes corresponding to lens communication (I) to (IX) in the in-body microcomputer (μC1)) according to the determination result of the communication mode.

If the communication mode is mode (I), the 2-byte body status flag (Table 3) is serially input, and the terminal (C3L
Wait for the signal to E) to change from "Low" level to "High" level, and then go to "High" level. After executing the subroutine for renormalizing the Hassum lens group, execute the display subroutine and return (Step #
L600~#L615). However, before returning,
Enable F/Z INT interrupts.

Note that waiting for the signal to the terminal (C8LE) to change from "Low" level to "High" level in step (#L604) is to confirm that the communication between the lens and the body is completed. This is to prevent other processing from being performed during communication. Confirmation of the end of communication and permission of F/ZINT interrupt are performed in the same way in other communication modes.

If the communication mode is mode (II), after serially inputting the 2-byte data similar to mode (I), the terminal (C8
LE) waits for the signal to change from "Low" level to the old ghll level, and when it becomes "High" level, executes the zoom lens group stop subroutine (Figure 42), and then executes the display subroutine (Figure 43). ) and returns (steps #L620 to #L635). This mode of communication is executed when the body issues a stop command to the lens.

If the communication mode is mode (III), the lens status data (Table 2) is set and 2-byte data is serially output. Then, the signal to the terminal (C8LE) is “Lo
Wait for the change from w'' level to High'' level,
When the level reaches "l (high"), the process returns (steps #L640 to #L650).Communication in this mode is executed when the body checks the state of the lens (driving, stopped, etc.).

If the communication mode is mode (IV), this communication mode is the current focal length f. A mode for calculating lens data in a subsequent mode (
VI) is transferred to the body.

Therefore, by serially inputting the 2-byte body status data (Table 3), the signal to the terminal (C8LE) is 6Lo.
Wait for the change from “w” level to ° “old gh” level,
When the level becomes "High", lens data that changes due to zooming is calculated and the process returns (steps 11L660 to 11L670).

A subroutine for calculating this lens data is shown in FIG. When the subroutine is called, first, the value Zc of the zoom counter is read and the counter value is converted to the focal length f (steps #L800 to #L810).
. Thereafter, lens data that directly affects the distance measurement value, that is, the difference ΔSB between the film surface and the AF sensor surface, the drive amount conversion coefficient KL, and the distance conversion coefficient are obtained. In order to obtain these lens data, first,
Search the table storing the above lens data for every 20 pulses of the zoom counter (step #L820)
Then, highly accurate lens data is obtained by performing an interpolation calculation using the table data obtained through the search (step #L822).

If the communication mode is mode (V), this communication mode is the current focal length f, similar to mode (IV). In this mode, after calculating the lens data at , zooming is performed to the target focal length ft specified by the body. Therefore, a total of 3 bytes of data, 2 bytes of body status data (Table 3) and 1 byte of target focal length f, are serially input, and the signal to the terminal (C8LE) becomes "Low".
Wait for the level to change to “High” and then
When it reaches the "high" level, it calculates the lens data that changes due to zooming, executes the APZ subroutine, and returns (steps #L680 to #L695).
, This APZ subroutine will be described later along with an explanation of mode (IX).

If the communication mode is mode (Vl), this communication mode is a mode in which lens data calculated in mode (IV) or (V) is transferred to the body after communication in these modes. Therefore, after serially outputting the 2-byte lens status data (Table 2), the mode (m
Lens data that changes due to zooming calculated in V) or (V), that is, the current focal length f
. , the difference ΔSB between the film surface and the AF sensor surface, the driving amount conversion coefficient KL, and the distance conversion coefficient KN are serially output (step 1L70).
0~1lL712), and the terminal (C5LE)
The process waits for the signal to change from the "Low" level to the "old gh" level, and returns when it becomes the "High" level (step #L715).

If the communication mode is mode (■), this is the mode in which all lens-specific data is transferred to the body, so after serially outputting 2-byte lens status data (Table 2), the conventional lens data AVo, AVnox is output. .

KLI fl+1 LONs KN+ ΔSB
, the shortest focal length f@lI++ of the lens, the longest focal length f, . . . , and 9 bytes of data are serially output (steps #L720 to #L732). Then, the process waits for the signal to the terminal (C3IJ) to change from the "LOW" level to the "HIGH" level, and returns when the signal reaches the "HIGH" level (step #L735).

If the communication mode is mode (■), this communication mode is a mode in which data indicating permission for zooming in response to an F/ZINT interrupt, which is an interrupt for power zoom operation (zoom ring operation), is transferred from the body to the lens. Therefore, 2 bytes of body state data (Table 3)
After inputting serially, the signal to the terminal (C3LE) is “
Wait for the level to change from "Low" to "High", and when the level reaches "High", execute the MPZ subroutine and return (steps #L740 to #L7).
50).

This MPZ subroutine is shown in Figure 947.

When this subroutine is called, it first displays the focal length, reads the value of the encoder pattern (ZVEN) (Fig. 4) placed around the zoom ring, and determines whether or not the zoom ring has been operated (step #
L850~#L858). As a result, if there is no operation, the process advances to step (#L890) and it is checked whether a flag (ZVMF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven is set. Then, if the flag (ZMVF) is set, the zoom lens group is stopped; if it is not set, the subroutine for stopping the zoom lens group is not executed, only the display is performed, and the process returns (step $L89).
0 to #L89B) On the other hand, if it is determined in step (#L858) that the zoom ring has been operated, the process proceeds to step (#L860) and it is determined whether or not the direction in which the zoom ring was operated is the telephoto direction. Then, if it is in the telephoto direction, a flag (WDF) indicating that zooming is in the wide direction is reset, and if it is not in the telephoto direction, the flag (WDF) is set (steps 11L860 to #L872). Next, operate the zoom ring. After reading the amount, setting one of the zooming speeds v1 to v3 corresponding to the operation amount, and further setting the zoom drive pulse number ΔZ according to the operation amount,
Call the driving subroutine (■) and start driving the zoom lens group (steps #L874 to #L880).
After starting the drive, steps (#L850) to (#L
880) is repeatedly executed, but step (#L858
), if it is determined that the amount of operation of the zoom ring has disappeared, the zoom lens group is stopped, a display is performed, and the process returns (steps #L890 to #L898).

If the communication mode is mode (IX), this communication mode is an APZ mode in which there is no need to transfer lens data that changes due to zooming to the body in the next serial communication. Here, the APZ mode refers to a mode in which the camera automatically zooms to a focal length instructed from the body. Therefore, after serially inputting 3 bytes of data consisting of 2 bytes of body state data (Table 3) and 1 byte of target focal length f, the signal to the terminal (C8LE) becomes "'L".

Wait for the level to change from 1= to 'High' level,
When the level reaches "High", execute the APZ subroutine and return (steps #L760 to #L770).
).

This APZ subroutine is shown in FIG.

When this subroutine is called, first, the target focal length f sent from the body is converted to the target zoom counter value Z.
After converting to t, read the zoom counter value Zc at that point and set it as the current zoom counter value z, l (
Steps #L900 to #L906) Next, the target zoom counter value Zt and the current zoom counter value Zo are compared to set the zooming direction. If they match, there is no need to zoom, so
Return without driving the zoom lens group (step #
L908). 2. and Z. If they do not match, the process advances to step (#L910) and Zt is Z. Determine whether the value is greater than or not. As a result, if Z is larger than Z, a flag (WDF) indicating zooming in the wide direction is set.
21-2. The number of zoom drive pulses △2
(Steps #L912 to #L918). On the other hand,
If Zt is not larger than zn, a flag (wDF) is set and the number of zoom drive pulses ΔZ is determined from zn-Zl (steps #L920 to #L928). Once the zoom drive pulse △2 is determined, set the speed sent as the body status data (Table 3) as the drive speed, and start driving ■
Start driving the zoom lens group by calling the subroutine (step #L930. #L934)
. At this time, since the speed sent from the body is set as the drive speed, the zoom speed in APZ mode can be controlled from the body side. After starting driving, wait for the flag (ZMVF) indicating that the zoom lens group is being driven to be reset, checking at intervals of 10m5ec.
If the flag (ZMVF) is reset, the process returns (steps #L938 to #L940). As mentioned above, the flag (ZMVF) is reset by a counter interrupt or timer interrupt that controls the drive when the driving of a predetermined zoom lens group is completed.

In addition, the above APZ subroutine (Fig. 48) or MP
In the Z subroutine (Figure 47), if communication in mode (III) to check the lens status occurs while the zoom lens group is being driven, the C8 interrupt is given top priority in order to respond while driving the zoom lens group. It is said that

In addition, as mentioned in the explanation of communication in mode (I), when performing serial communication in modes (I) to (IX) and associated calculations and zooming, and returning, F is used to enable power zoom. /ZINT interrupt is enabled and the process returns (step #L780 in FIG. 45).

This completes the explanation of the configuration and operation of this embodiment.

(Margin below) As explained above, according to this embodiment, the shooting preparation switch (focus detection start switch) (Sl) is ON.
When the focus is detected, distance measurement (focus detection) is performed (steps #450 to #465 in Fig. 15), and if the focus cannot be detected (the first
Step #605 in Figure 9. #606), a low contrast scan is executed (step #505 in FIG. 15, the first
Loop #55→#60→#55 in Figure 15), If focus becomes detectable during this low contrast scan, the AF lens is driven to bring it into focus, and steps #520~ in Figure 15
#528), photography can be performed without changing the angle of view. On the other hand, when the auto wide function is turned on by operating the auto wide switch (Sgw), the focus cannot be detected even after executing the low contrast scan (steps #690, #700, and #70 in Fig. 22).
5), and if the photographing preparation switch (Sl) is still turned on (step #385 in FIG. 14), auto-wide is started (step #515 in FIG. 15). If focus detection becomes possible during this auto-wide, the AF lens is driven to bring it into focus (step #520 in Figure 15).
~#528), exposure control is performed (steps #400~#425 in Figure 14).This allows for a certain range of exposure even when the subject is out of the distance measurement area or when the subject itself lacks contrast. It is possible to enable focus detection within the range.

However, when focus detection is enabled by the auto wide function, the angle of view changes during photographing due to zooming, which may cause problems such as giving the photographer a sense of discomfort. On the other hand, in Modified Example 7, which will be described later, zooming is stopped when focus becomes detectable during auto-wide, and the AF lens is driven to bring it into focus (steps #520 to #528 in FIG. 15). ). And after that, AF
Only the zoom lens group is returned to the position where auto wide was started without driving the lens (returning to the focal length at the time auto wide was started). Thereby, even if focus detection is enabled by the auto wide function, photography can be performed without changing the angle of view.

In the explanation of the above embodiments, a single-lens reflex camera was used as an example, but the wide-field mode function (wide view function) and auto wide function described therein are as follows.
This can be similarly realized in a camera having a separate finder optical system, such as a lens-shutter type camera. In addition to film cameras that use film as a shooting medium, COD and MOS-
A similar function can also be achieved in an electronic still camera using an IC.

(Blank below) Next, another embodiment (hereinafter referred to as a "modified example") in which a part of the configuration is added or changed based on the embodiment described above (hereinafter referred to as a "basic example") will be described.

31 In this example, the release switch (S2
) is intended to shorten the time from turning on to exposure. FIG. 49 shows a sea fence chart in the wide-field mode of this example. In this figure, the communications (#c) (#d) (#d') between the lens and the body are the same as the communications (#c) (#d) (#d') in Figures 6 and 7, respectively. It is communication of content.

In the sea fencing of this example, priority is given to high speed operation from turning on the release switch (S2) to exposure, and the release sea fencing is executed without re-measuring the distance after zooming up.

In other words, on the body side, communication (#d'
), when the lens state data indicating the completion of zooming is received, the mirror is immediately raised and exposed without re-measuring the distance. Thereby, the time from turning on the release switch (S2) to exposure can be shortened.

This example is aimed at preventing out-of-focus photographs in wide-field mode. Regarding this example, the 50th
This will be explained with reference to the figures.

Assume that a person is to be photographed in the wide-field mode, that a finder image as shown in FIG. 50(a) is obtained before the shutter release, and focus is detected using the distance measuring island (d). In this case, when the camera is released, the zoom is increased and the viewfinder image becomes as shown in Figure (b). At this point, when the distance is measured again and the focus is detected using the distance measurement island (d), the face is in focus before the zoom is increased. However, after zooming in, the person's throat will be in focus. This results in a slightly out-of-focus photo.

Therefore, in this example, in wide-field mode, if the distance measurement island before zooming up is the distance measurement island (b) located in the center of the finder, distance measurement is performed again after zooming up, but the distance measurement island before zooming up is In the case of distance measurement islands (a), (viii), and (d) other than the distance measurement island (b) located in the center of the finder, the sea fence is used in which distance measurement is not performed again after zooming up. This can prevent out-of-focus photographs as described above from being produced.

Similar to the above-mentioned modification 2, this example aims to prevent an out-of-focus photograph when a finder image as shown in Fig. 50 is obtained in wide-field mode. It is something that

In this example, when the wide-field mode is set, the distance measurement island is limited to the distance measurement island (b) located in the center of the finder. As a result, the position on the subject to be measured does not change even after zooming up at the time of release, so the focus will not shift when distance measurement is performed again after zooming up.

In this example, even if the actual shooting area (film frame) is the same,
This is to deal with the fact that the final screen area differs depending on whether it is a slide or a service size print.

FIG. 51 shows the relationship among the finder frame, photographing frame, and actual photographing area (film frame) in a single-lens reflex camera whose viewfinder field of view during normal use is approximately 93%. In the basic embodiment described above, the viewfinder field of view before release in wide-field mode is 140%, so that the shooting area that was visible within the shooting frame (FD2) before release is changed to the viewfinder frame (FD2) at the time of release. A 1.4x zoom-up is performed to match the imaging area visible within the FDI. In the case of photography corresponding to the standard service size, it is desirable to zoom up to 1.4 times. This is because the actual shooting area is a little wider than the shooting area that was visible in the shooting frame (FD2) before the release, but the surrounding screen is cut off when printing, so the final print screen is This is because the area almost coincides with the shooting area that was visible in the shooting frame (FD2) before the release. However, in the case of slide-compatible shooting, simply zooming up to 1.4x at the time of release will also capture scenery outside the shooting area that was visible within the shooting frame (FD2) before the release, and this will not be the final image. area of the screen.

Therefore, in this example, in the case of slide-compatible shooting in wide-field mode, the shooting frame (FD2
) will change to the actual shooting area (
FDO) (taking into account the error, it should match an area slightly inside the actual shooting area (FDO))
, it is configured to zoom up.

As a result, even in the case of slide-compatible shooting, the shooting area that was visible in the shooting frame (FD2) before release almost matches the area of the final slide screen.

Similar to Modified Example 4, this example is adapted to accommodate both slides and service size prints regarding the zoom-up magnification in wide-field mode.

In this example, the type of film is read to identify whether it is a negative film or a versatile film. Specifically, by detecting the latitude encoded on the film as part of the DX code, it is possible to identify whether it is a negative film or a versatile film. Based on this identification result, in the case of negative film, the configuration zooms up so that the shooting area visible within the shooting frame (FD2) before release matches the shooting area visible within the viewfinder frame (FDI) at the time of release. shall be. On the other hand,
In the case of a reversal film, the camera is configured to zoom up so that the shooting area visible in the shooting frame (FD2) before release matches the actual shooting area (FDO) at the time of release. As a result, in the case of either slide-compatible or service-size compatible shooting, the shooting area that was visible within the shooting frame (FD2) before release in wide-field mode is the area of the screen of the final slide or print. almost matches.

亙ILL In this example, like Modification 1, a part of the sea fence in wide-field mode is modified.

In the basic embodiment described above, the wide view switch (Swu
) is turned on, a photographing frame (FD2) is displayed within the finder frame (FDI) with the same angle of view (finder image), and a person, scenery, etc. within the photographing frame (FD2) is photographed. In the case of this sea fence, for example, you may initially check a moving subject using the viewfinder in normal field of view mode, and then you may want to check the scenery a little more outside.At this time, when you turn on the wide view switch (Swu), There is an inconvenience that the shooting frame (FD2) is displayed inside the camera, and only objects within a smaller shooting area than before turning on the wide view switch (ray) can be photographed.

Therefore, in this example, in order to eliminate this inconvenience, when the wide view switch (Swu) is turned on, the shooting area that was visible within the viewfinder frame (FDI) before being turned on will be displayed within the shooting frame (FD2) after being turned on. After zooming down to match the visible shooting area, a sea fence is adopted in which the shooting frame (FD2) is displayed and the wide field of view mode is set. For example, if the viewfinder field of view before release in wide field mode is 140%, after zooming down to approximately 0.7x, the shooting frame (F
D2) will be displayed to set the wide field of view mode.

This sea fence will be explained below with reference to FIGS. 52 and 53.

In this example, a subroutine shown in FIG. 52 is adopted in place of the wide-field zoom determination subroutine shown in FIG. 13 in the basic embodiment described above. l] When the subroutine in Figure I52 is called, first the wide view switch (Sl
, lu) is turned on, and if it is not turned on, resets the flag (WWF) indicating that wide field of view mode is enabled, turns off the display of the shooting frame (FD2), and returns. (Steps #C10, #C
50, #C60). On the other hand, if it is determined in step (#Cl0) that the wide view switch (SIIU) is turned on, the photographing area that was visible in the viewfinder frame (FDI) before being turned on will be changed to the photographing frame (FDI) after being turned on.
2) Execute a subroutine to zoom down 0.7 times to match the shooting area visible within (step #
C20). Then, a flag (WVF) indicating that wide-field mode is enabled is set, and the shooting frame (FD2
) is displayed in the finder frame (FDI) and the process returns (steps #C30, #C40).

Next, the subroutine for zooming down to 0.7 times as shown in FIG. 53 will be explained. When this subroutine is called, first, the current focal length f is determined.

In step (#C100), it is determined whether the value obtained by multiplying by 0.7 is smaller than the focal length flil+ at the wide end,
If it is not smaller, set the value obtained by multiplying the current focal length f by 0.7 as the target focal length fI (Step #C110)
, if it is small, the focal length f1° at the wide end is set as the target focal length f (step #C120). Then, lens communication (IX) is performed to set the zoom speed and inform the lens to zoom to the target focal length f.
After executing , wait for the zoom lens group to stop and the flag (ZMVF) to be reset while repeating lens communication (III) to check the lens status at 10m5ec intervals (steps #C130 to 1lc170), zoom lens group When it stops, in order to receive lens data that changes due to zooming and perform distance measurement calculations in the next distance measurement, set a flag (ITGTF) that instructs data transfer to notify the integration start timing, and then return. (Step #C180).

By adopting the sea fence described above, when you turn on the wide and knee switch (S-υ), you can see a wider area in the viewfinder than the shooting area that was visible in the viewfinder before turning it on. Even after this, it is possible to photograph the same area that was visible in the finder before turning on the switch.

Example 1: This example is a partial modification of the auto wide sea fence.

In the basic embodiment described above, when focus detection becomes possible during auto wide, the zoom lens group is stopped, normal distance measurement is resumed, and the sea fence for focusing is performed at the focal length at which focus detection becomes possible. Running. However, depending on the personality of the photographer or the shooting scene, it may not be possible to tolerate changes in the angle of view that accompany auto wide.

Therefore, in this example, the AF lens is driven to focus on the subject when focus becomes detectable during auto wide, and the AF lens is not driven thereafter (
AF lock mode) is used, and only the zoom lens group is returned to the position where auto wide was started. As a result, the angle of view does not change even when auto-wide is performed, and the photographer can take the picture he or she intended.

In this example, focus detection is made easier in auto wide mode.

In the basic embodiment described above, the auto wide sea fencing is started after the low contrast scan is completed (step #502 in Figure 15), and the AF lens position at the start of the auto wide is set to the infinity end. (Steps #690 to $1705 in FIG. 22) In this state, for example, for the object at the closest position, the focus cannot be detected because the amount of defocus is too large, especially on the telephoto side.

Therefore, in this example, in order to deal with this problem, at the start of auto wide, the AF lens is set at a lens position that focuses on an object at infinity and a lens position that focuses on the closest subject at the focal length at that point. The lens is configured to be set at an intermediate lens position. This prevents the amount of defocus from becoming extremely large for either near or far objects, making focus detection easier in auto wide mode.

Also, subjects for which focus cannot be detected even with low-contrast scanning on the telephoto side are often close subjects, so when starting auto wide, set the AF lens to a subject distance of 2.5, for example.
It may be configured to be set at a specific position such as a feeding position corresponding to m.

This example deals with the case where the time required for CCD integration becomes long in focus detection (distance measurement) performed during zooming.

In the above-mentioned basic embodiment, data indicating that it is the timing to start CCD integration is transferred from the body side to the lens side through lens communication (IV, V), and the lens side (c) receives the data and transmits the state of the lens at the time it is received ( Performs lens data calculations based on the focal length (focal length), and requests lens data input from the body side (lens communication via C8 interrupt).
). As a result, CCD integration and lens data calculation are performed in synchronization, but if the time required for CCD integration becomes long, there may be a time lag even if the lens data is at the start of CCD integration. growing.

Therefore, in this example, in order to cope with the case where CCD integration requires a long time, data indicating the timing at the start and end of CCD integration is transferred from the body side to the lens side, and the lens side Lens data is calculated based on the state of the lens (focal length) at an intermediate point between the end and the end, and the lens data is transferred to the body after the data dump is completed. This reduces the time lag between the CCD integration center point and the lens data calculation point, thereby improving distance measurement accuracy.

Table 1 Table 3 Table 2 Table 4 (Part 1) Table 4 (Part 2) Table 5 As described in detail of the invention, according to the camera of the present invention, the subject is not outside the distance measurement area. or when the focus cannot be detected due to lack of contrast in the subject itself.
By repeating focus detection while zooming to the wide side, focus detection can be made within a certain range. When focus detection becomes possible, exposure is performed after returning the focal length to the point at which zooming was started, allowing the photographer to take the photograph he or she intended without changing the angle of view.

In addition, if you configure the system to repeat focus detection while driving the focus adjustment lens before repeating focus detection while zooming to the wide side, focus detection becomes impossible because the focus is far out of focus. In this case, focus detection can be performed without zooming. In this case, the angle of view does not change, of course.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a camera system embodying the present invention, FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing the external configuration of the body of the camera system, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of a lens. FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an internal circuit built into the body, FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram showing an internal circuit built into the interchangeable lens, and FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing an internal circuit built into the camera system. It is a figure which shows a display. FIG. 6 is a sea fence chart showing an outline of the operating sea fence in wide field mode of the camera system, FIG. 7 is a sea fence chart showing an outline of the operating sea fence in auto wide mode of the camera system, and FIG.
The figure shows the image in the viewfinder in wide field mode.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an image in the finder during auto wide mode. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a reset routine for the in-body microcomputer in the camera system, FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for renormalizing the AF lens, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for renormalizing the zoom lens group. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the wide-field mode determination subroutine, FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the 5IOH subroutine,
Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the AF control subroutine;
Figure 16 shows the lens IN that controls interrupts from the lens.
17 to 24 and 28 are flowcharts showing each subroutine called from the AF control subroutine. FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the exposure calculation subroutine. A flowchart showing a subroutine for displaying AE amount relationships, Fig. 27 a flowchart showing a 1.4x zoom subroutine, Fig. 29 a flowchart showing an exposure control subroutine, and Figs. 30 to 38 show lens communication. 3 is a flowchart showing subroutines (I) to (IX). FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing a reset routine for the microcomputer in the lens in the camera system, FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for renormalizing the zoom lens group, and FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for starting driving the zoom lens group. , Fig. 42 is a flowchart showing the subroutine for stopping the zoom lens group, Fig. 43 is a flowchart showing the subroutine for displaying lens information, Fig. 44 is a flowchart showing the F/ZINT interrupt routine, and Fig. 45 is a flowchart showing the C8 interrupt. FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for lens data calculation.
FIG. 47 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for zooming based on zoom ring operation, and FIG. 48 is a flowchart showing a subroutine for zooming based on instructions from the body. FIG. 49 is a sea fence chart showing an overview of the operational sea fence in the wide-field mode of modification 1;
Fig. 0 is a diagram showing a finder image in wide field mode of Modification 2, and Fig. 51 is a viewfinder frame and photographing frame in a single-lens reflex camera. FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing a wide-field zoom determination subroutine used in modification 6, and FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing the wide-field zoom determination subroutine called from the wide-field zoom determination subroutine. 3 is a flowchart showing a subroutine. (1)...Body control section. (2) ... Distance measuring section. (3) Focus adjustment lens group drive control section (focus adjustment lens group drive means). (6) Lens control unit. (7)...Zoom lens group drive control section. (12)...Release button. (13) Wide view key (18) Auto wide key (L, ) Focus adjustment lens group (AF lens). (LA)...Zoom lens group. (Ml)...Motor that drives the focusing lens group (
AF motor). (M3)...Motor that drives the zoom lens group (zoom motor). (Sl)... Shooting preparation switch (focus detection start switch). (S2)...Release switch. (SWv)...Wide view switch. (SAv)...Auto wide switch. (BD)...Camera body. (LE)...Interchangeable lens. (AFcT)... Light receiving circuit for focus detection (built-in integral type optical sensor). (μC1)...Microcomputer inside the hotel. (μC2)...Microcomputer inside the lens. (FDI)...Finder frame. (FD2)... Shooting frame. (FD3)...Distance measurement area (A)~(=)...Distance measurement island.

Claims (2)

[Claims] (1) In a camera that has a zooming function and automatically performs focusing using a TTL method using a focus detection start switch, a focus detection means, and a focusing lens group driving means, the zoom lens group driving means; When the focus detection start switch is turned on, the focus detection means performs focus detection, and if focus detection is not possible as a result, a focus detection failure signal output means outputs a focus detection failure signal, and a focus detection failure signal output means stores the focal length. a storage means; when the focus detection impossible signal is output, the focal length at that time is stored in the storage means, and then the focal length is adjusted while zooming toward a wide-angle side by the zoom lens group driving means; The focus adjustment lens group is moved by the focus adjustment lens group drive means to a lens position where the focus adjustment lens group is in focus on the subject after focus detection is repeated by the detection means and when focus detection becomes possible. control means for controlling the focal length to return to the focal length stored by the storage means by zooming the zoom lens group driving means while fixing the lens group at the lens position; A camera characterized by: (2) A camera that has a zooming function and automatically performs focusing using a TTL method using a focus detection start switch, a focus detection means, and a focusing lens group driving means, the zoom lens group driving means; When the focus detection start switch is turned on, focus detection is performed by the focus detection means, and if focus detection is not possible as a result, focus detection failure signal output means outputs a focus detection failure signal; and the focus detection failure signal. is output, the focus detection means repeats focus detection while driving the focus adjustment lens group by the focus adjustment lens group drive means, and if the focus still cannot be detected as a result, a low contrast scan completion signal is output. a low contrast scan completion signal output means for outputting a low contrast scan completion signal; and a storage means for storing a focal length; After storing the focal length of After the focusing lens group is moved by the focusing lens group driving means to the lens position to be focused, the focusing lens group is moved by the zoom lens group driving means while the focusing lens group is fixed at the lens position. A camera comprising: control means for controlling the focal length to return to the focal length stored by the storage means by zooming.