In Canon’s RF lens lineup, hybrid AF lenses combine photo and video technologies by incorporating both Voice Coil Motor (VCM) systems for smooth silent operation like in cine lenses and Nano Ultrasonic Motors (Nano USM). These VCM voice coils are used to drive the main focusing lens group while a smaller Nano USM handles floating elements. The hybrid approach caters to both photographers seeking precision autofocusing for stills and videographers requiring quiet operation during video capture. Examples of such lenses include Canon RF 24mm F1.4 L VCM, RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM, and RF 50mm F1.4 L VCM released in 2024.
The main focusing lens group typically consists of multiple elements with significant weight requiring powerful autofocus systems like the voice coil motors to achieve rapid movements despite their heaviness. On the other hand, floating lenses are usually single elements and can be managed efficiently by smaller Nano USM units due to less mass involved.
In summary (pun intended), hybrid AF Canon RF lenses utilize a combination of VCMs for main focusing lens groups’ powerful yet silent operation and Nano USMs for floating lens elements requiring lesser force. This innovative approach caters to both photography enthusiasts seeking precision autofocusing capabilities in still images as well as videographers demanding quietness during video capture.
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