Camera device, image blur correction device and image blur correction method

Abstract

Provided are an image capture device, an image blur correction device, and an image blur correction method. The image capture device includes: a first image blur correction unit, which includes a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the first movable unit. An interchangeable lens including a second image blur correction unit can be attached to the image capture device and can be detached from the image capture device, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the second movable unit. The image capture device also includes a control unit configured to move the position of the other movable unit in a direction to eliminate the offset of the image capture optical axis caused by fixing one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the interchangeable lens is attached to the image capture device and one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an image pickup device, an image blur correction device and an image blur correction method. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, imaging devices with a high number of pixels and high sensitivity have been provided, and therefore, an image blur correction device capable of accurately moving an optical component such as a lens or an image sensor of the imaging device over a long stroke is required. However, there is a problem of increased power consumption when using an interchangeable lens and an imaging device each including a corresponding image blur correction device.

[0003] On the other hand, the image pickup apparatus is required to provide lower power consumption so as to be able to capture as many images as possible. Therefore, an image pickup system that ensures both image blur correction performance and low power consumption is required.

[0004] For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-107646 discusses a technique for controlling selection between an image blur correction device of a lens and an image blur correction device of an imaging device.

[0005] However, with the technique discussed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-107646, unselected image blur correction devices are electromagnetically locked and thus consume power.

[0006] Mechanically locking an unselected image blur correction device can reduce power consumption. However, there is a problem that a slight difference occurs between the imaging optical axis of the interchangeable lens and the imaging device due to unevenness in component dimensions and the force used for locking. Summary of the invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a camera device includes: a first image blur correction unit including a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the first movable unit. An interchangeable lens including a second image blur correction unit can be attached to and detached from the camera device, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the second movable unit. The camera device also includes a control unit configured to move the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the offset of the camera optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the interchangeable lens is attached to the camera device and one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, a camera device includes: a first image blur correction unit, which includes a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the first movable unit; and a second image blur correction unit, which includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the second movable unit, wherein the camera device corrects the image blur of an optical image formed on an image sensor by using the first image blur correction unit and the second image blur correction unit, and wherein the camera device also includes a control unit, which is configured to move the position of the other movable unit of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the offset of the camera optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the other movable unit of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, an image blur correction device includes: a first image blur correction unit including a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the first movable unit; and a second image blur correction unit including a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the second movable unit, wherein the imaging device corrects image blur of an optical image formed on an image sensor by using the first image blur correction unit and the second image blur correction unit, and wherein the imaging device further includes a control unit configured to move the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the imaging optical axis offset caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism. Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, an image blur correction method is provided for correcting the image blur of an optical image formed on an image sensor by using a first image blur correction unit and by using a second image blur correction unit, wherein the first image blur correction unit includes a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the first movable unit, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock the position of the second movable unit, the image blur correction method comprising: when one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism, moving the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the offset of the photographic optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the front side of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an internal structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating electrical connections in a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a main internal structure of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is an exploded perspective view illustrating an image blur correction unit in a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 6 A locking mechanism of a camera according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0017] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the camera according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating drive control of a lock mechanism of a camera according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0020] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view showing the front of the camera 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The shutter button 3 is an operation member for issuing an image capturing instruction. The mode selection switch 4 is an operation member for selecting among various modes. The terminal cover 5 protects an interface connector (not shown). The main electronic dial 6 is a rotation operation member that is rotated by the user to change image capturing parameters related to shutter speed and aperture, etc. The power dial 7 is an operation member for turning the camera 100 on or off.

[0021] The imaging lens 200 (described below) is attached to and detached from the mount 1. The camera communication unit 2 includes terminals located inside the mount 1. The terminals of the camera communication unit 2 and a lens communication terminal 214 (described below) are electrically connected to each other to enable communication between the camera 100 and the imaging lens 200.

[0022] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal structure of the camera 100 . Figure 2 The imaging lens 200 is an interchangeable lens replaceably attached to the camera 100 and includes a focus lens 202, an image blur correction unit 205 (described below), and an aperture mechanism 204 (described below).

[0023] In the present exemplary embodiment, although the imaging lens 200 is replaceably attached to the camera 100 , the imaging lens 200 may not be replaceable and may be integrally fixed to the camera 100 .

[0024] The lens communication terminal 214 is located inside the lens mount 211 to enable communication between the camera 100 and the imaging lens 200 via the camera communication unit 2. In the camera 100, an image sensor 103a such as a charge coupled device (CCD) image sensor or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor is attached to an imaging substrate 103b, and a main substrate 105 is located on the back side of the imaging substrate 103b and is provided with a system control circuit 101 (described below) that performs various types of processing. The image blur correction unit 104 includes an image sensor unit 103 having the image sensor 103a and the imaging substrate 103b, an image blur correction control unit 72 (described below), and a lock mechanism 150 (described below). Components such as a central processing unit (CPU) and a micro processing unit (MPU) serving as the system control circuit 101 that performs various types of processing of the camera 100 may not be mounted on the main substrate 105. Alternatively, at least a part of the components may be mounted on the imaging substrate 103b.

[0025] An in-viewfinder display unit 106 and a contact lens 107 are provided at the upper portion of the camera 100. The in-viewfinder display unit 106 is used to check the imaging conditions, image composition, and captured images. The contact lens 107 is used to observe the subject image. A rear display unit 108 and a recording medium slot 30 and a recording medium slot 40 (described below) are provided at the rear of the camera 100. The rear display unit 108 is used to check the imaging conditions, image composition, and captured images. The recording medium slots 30 and 40 are used to store removable recording media 300 and 400 (described below) respectively in which the generated image data is recorded.

[0026] The imaging substrate 103b and the main substrate 105 are electrically connected to each other via a connection substrate (not shown). A shutter 110 for adjusting exposure time is located on the front side (object side) of the image sensor 103a.

[0027] The light beam incident on the imaging lens 200 is guided through the aperture mechanism 204 and the shutter 110 , and forms an optical image on the imaging surface of the image sensor 103 a .

[0028] The mount 1 is an interface that connects the camera 100 and the imaging lens 200 , and is fixed to the lens mount 211 by a bayonet connection.

[0029] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing electrical connections in the camera 100 .

[0030] The recording media 300 and 400 are, for example, memory cards stored in the recording medium slot 30 and the recording medium slot 40 , respectively.

[0031] The image blur correction unit 104 as a first image blur correction unit includes a movable unit 104a (described below) as a first movable unit, a fixed unit 104b (described below), and a locking mechanism 150 as a first locking mechanism. The image blur correction control unit 72 corrects image blur by driving the movable unit 104a in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis 1000 based on the movement (shake amount) of the camera 100 detected by the gyro sensor 82. The locking mechanism 150 applies a force to the movable unit 104a in a direction parallel to the imaging optical axis 1000 to mechanically lock the position of the movable unit 104a.

[0032] The image blur correction unit 205 as a second image blur correction unit includes an image blur correction lens 203 as a second movable unit, an image blur correction control unit 64, and a lock mechanism 210 as a second lock mechanism. The image blur correction control unit 64 corrects image blur by driving the image blur correction lens 203 in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis 1000 based on the movement (shake amount) of the camera 100 detected by the gyro sensor 82.

[0033] The locking mechanism 210 rotates a locking member (not shown) by a motor and a gear train (not shown) to mechanically lock the image blur correction lens 203. Although other types of locking mechanisms are applicable, all locking mechanisms are known, so their description will be omitted in the present exemplary embodiment.

[0034] If the imaging lens 200 is provided with a gyro sensor, the image blur correction lens 203 may be driven based on a result detected by the gyro sensor of the imaging lens 200 instead of the gyro sensor 82 .

[0035] The recording medium slot (first card slot) 30 is dedicated to the recording medium 300. When the recording medium 300 is attached to the first card slot 30, the attachment is detected by the attachment detection unit 32. The recording medium slot (second card slot) 40 is dedicated to the recording medium 400. When the recording medium 400 is attached to the second card slot 40, the attachment is detected by the attachment detection unit 42.

[0036] A system control circuit 101 that controls the entire camera 100 is mounted on a main substrate 105. A memory 52 stores constants, variables, and programs used for the operation of the system control circuit 101. The system control circuit 101 also controls the shutter 110 and the aperture mechanism 204 of the imaging lens 200 based on the result of calculation of the image data of the image captured by the image sensor 103a by the image processing circuit 60 to perform automatic focus (AF) processing and automatic exposure (AE) processing. In the AE processing, the aperture control unit 62 controls the aperture mechanism 204. In the AF processing, the distance measurement control unit 66 controls the focus lens 202.

[0037] The display unit 54 is a liquid crystal display that displays an operation status, a warning message, a live view image or a captured image, etc. The display unit 54 is included in the back display unit 108. The timer 56 measures a predetermined period of time. The thermometer 58 measures the temperature of the image sensor 103a.

[0038] The image processing circuit 60 performs pixel interpolation processing, color conversion processing, and predetermined image processing corresponding to preset moving image recording settings (including moving image recording image quality and moving image recording format) on image data of an image captured by the image sensor 103a.

[0039] The operation unit 80 includes various buttons, switches, and dials, such as a shutter button 3, a mode selection switch 4, a main electronic dial 6, and a power dial 7. The operation unit 80 is used to select various functions and make settings at the time of imaging, reproduction, communication, etc., and to issue instructions for imaging and reproduction.

[0040] The gyro sensor 82 detects movement (amount of shake) of the camera 100 as an angular velocity. The power switch 84 turns the camera 100 on or off based on the operation of the power dial 7 .

[0041] The battery 88 is attachable to and detachable from the camera 100. The power control circuit 86 communicates with the battery 88 to acquire information on the remaining battery charge of the battery 88. The power control circuit 86 transmits the acquired information on the remaining battery charge to the system control circuit 101.

[0042] The communication control unit 94 controls wireless communication with an external device (not shown) via the antenna 96 and wired communication with the external device via the communication connector 98 .

[0043] Figure 4 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a main internal structure of the camera 100. The image blur correction unit 104 is fixed to the base member 120 together with the shutter 110.

[0044] The lock mechanism 150 of the image blur correction unit 104 is arranged further rearward than the image sensor 103 a (arranged on the photographer side), and can be moved in the direction of the imaging optical axis 1000 by a drive mechanism including a motor and a gear train (not shown).

[0045] Figure 5A and Figure 5B 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an image blur correction unit 104 in the camera 100. The image blur correction unit 104 includes a movable unit 104a and a fixed unit 104b as a fixed portion. The movable unit 104a includes an image sensor 103a. The fixed unit 104b is fixed to the base member 120. The image blur correction unit 104 is displaceably supported in the direction of the imaging optical axis 1000 relative to the base member 120 by three screws 600a, 600b and 600c and three coil springs 500a, 500b and 500c.

[0046] The fixed unit 104b mainly includes a front yoke 310, a base plate 350, and a back yoke 360. The movable unit 104a mainly includes a sensor holder 320, a low pass filter 321, and an image sensor 103a.

[0047] The image sensor 103a and the imaging substrate 103b are bonded and fixed to a sensor holder 320. A low-pass filter 321 is arranged further forward than the image sensor 103a in the sensor holder 320. The low-pass filter 321 prevents incident infrared rays to prevent color moire from occurring.

[0048] Three coils 341a, 341b, and 341c are provided in the sensor holder 320. Three ball-receiving portions 322a, 322b, and 322c are also formed in the sensor holder 320. In the front yoke 310, ball-receiving portions 313a, 313b, and 313c are formed at positions facing the ball-receiving portions 322a, 322b, and 322c, respectively.

[0049] The sensor holder 320 and the front yoke 310 to which the image sensor 103a and the imaging substrate 103b are bonded and fixed sandwich three balls between the ball receivers 322a, 322b, and 322c and the ball receivers 313a, 313b, and 313c, respectively, thereby supporting the three balls.

[0050] The front yoke 310 is provided with magnets 311 a and 312 a , magnets 311 b and 312 b , and magnets 311 c and 312 c attached at positions facing the coil 341 a , the coil 341 b , and the coil 341 c , respectively.

[0051] When the front yoke 310 and the sensor holder 320 approach to a certain distance, the sensor holder 320 is magnetically attracted to the front yoke 310 and is displaceably held by the front yoke 310 via three balls in a planar direction orthogonal to the imaging optical axis 1000 .

[0052] On the front yoke 310, pillars are vertically arranged toward the base plate 350, and one end of each pillar is press-fitted into the base plate 350. Thus, the front yoke 310 and the base plate 350 are engaged to sandwich the sensor holder 320 therebetween.

[0053] In the base plate 350, the magnets 351a and 361a, the magnets 351b and 361b, and the magnets 351c and 361c are assembled at different positions when viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis 1000. When viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis 1000, the magnets 351a and 361a, the magnets 351b and 361b, and the magnets 351c and 361c are arranged at substantially the same positions as the coils 341a, 341b, and 341c, respectively.

[0054] The back yoke 360 ​​is attached to the magnets 351a to 361c at the back side of the base plate 350. Each of the back yoke 360 ​​and the base plate 350 is made of a magnetic material, respectively.

[0055] A magnetic field is formed by the magnets 311a to 312c arranged on the front yoke 310 and the magnets 351a to 361c arranged on the back yoke 360. The coils 341a, 341b, and 341c are arranged in the magnetic field environment formed in this way.

[0056] The image blur correction unit 104 is configured to pass current through the coils 341a, 341b and 341c to generate Lorentz force in each of the coils 341a, 341b and 341c, and use the generated Lorentz force as thrust to displace the sensor holder 320 in a direction orthogonal to the imaging optical axis 1000.

[0057] Hall elements (not shown) serving as position detection sensors are installed in the coils 341a, 341b, and 341c, respectively, and detect changes in magnetic force that occur when the sensor holder 320 moves relative to the magnets 312a, 312b, and 321c.

[0058] Based on the detection result, the image blur correction unit 104 detects the position of the movable unit 104a relative to the fixed unit 104b in the direction orthogonal to the imaging optical axis 1000 (detects the displacement of the movable unit 104a relative to the reference position).

[0059] Figure 6 The locking mechanism 150 of the camera 100 is shown.

[0060] The locking mechanism 150 is movable in a direction parallel to the imaging optical axis 1000. When the locking mechanism 150 moves forward, the elastic members 150a, 150b and 150c (see FIG. Figure 4 ) contacts the sensor holder 320 of the movable unit 104a. After the contact, when the lock mechanism 150 moves further forward, the elastic members 150a to 150c are pressurized (elastically deformed) by the thrust of the lock mechanism 150 and the sensor holder 320.

[0061] The above-mentioned pressurization generates a friction force on the contact surface between the sensor holder 320 and the elastic members 150a to 150c, so that the locking mechanism 150 can lock the position of the movable unit 104a.

[0062] Next, we will refer to Figure 7 The first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described. Figures 1 to 6 The structure according to the present exemplary embodiment is described, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the camera 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment.

[0063] The camera 100 according to the present exemplary embodiment has two power saving modes 1 and 2. Power saving mode 1 enables the image blur correction function of one of the image blur correction units 104 and 205 and mechanically locks and disables the other image blur correction unit, thereby achieving both the image blur correction function and power saving.

[0064] The power saving mode 2 mechanically locks both the image blur correction units 104 and 205 to minimize the power consumption of the camera 100. The setting of the power saving modes 1 and 2 is performed by the system control circuit 101 based on the operation of the mode selection switch 4, for example.

[0065] In step S101 , the system control circuit 101 turns on the camera 100 based on the operation of the power dial 7 , and starts image capture preparation.

[0066] In step S102, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the energy saving mode 1 is selected by the operation of the mode selection switch 4. If the energy saving mode 1 is selected (YES in step S102), the system control circuit 101 sets the energy saving mode 1. Then, the process proceeds to step S103.

[0067] In step S103, the system control circuit 101 checks the focal length of the imaging lens 200 attached to the camera 100. For example, after starting preparation for imaging, the system control circuit 101 acquires information about the focal length of the imaging lens 200 from the imaging lens 200 via the camera communication unit 2. The system control circuit 101 checks the focal length of the imaging lens 200 to determine which of the image blur correction units 104 and 205 is to be enabled to make image blur correction in imaging more effective. At this time, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the information about the focal length of the imaging lens 200 is equal to or greater than a predetermined focal length.

[0068] In the present exemplary embodiment, if the system control circuit 101 determines that the focal length is shorter than 100 mm (the focal length is shorter than a predetermined focal length) (No in step S103), the system control circuit 101 activates the image blur correction unit 104. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the focal length is equal to or longer than 100 mm (the focal length is equal to or longer than a predetermined focal length) (Yes in step S103), the system control circuit 101 activates the image blur correction unit 205. In the present exemplary embodiment, although the focal length of 100 mm is set as the threshold value as an example of the determination condition, a value of a different focal length or information on image blur correction characteristics other than the focal length may be set as the determination condition.

[0069] In step S104, the system control circuit 101 checks the remaining battery power by using the power supply control circuit 86. The system control circuit 101 determines whether the information related to the remaining battery power is equal to or greater than a predetermined remaining battery power.

[0070] In the present exemplary embodiment, if the system control circuit 101 determines that the remaining battery power is less than 50% (the information related to the remaining battery power is less than the predetermined remaining battery power) (No in step S104), the system control circuit 101 enables the image blur correction unit 104 and mechanically locks the image blur correction unit 205 to extend the image capture time. This is because it is generally considered that the image blur correction unit 104 of the camera 100 is arranged closer to the battery 88 than the image blur correction unit 205 of the imaging lens 200, and thus provides higher power efficiency. In the present exemplary embodiment, although the remaining battery power of 50% is set as the threshold value as an example of the determination condition, different values ​​of the remaining battery power may be set as the determination condition. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the remaining battery power is equal to or greater than 50% (the information related to the remaining battery power is equal to or greater than the predetermined remaining battery power) (Yes in step S104), the system control circuit 101 enables the image blur correction unit 205 preferentially based on the determination result of the focal length.

[0071] In step S105, the system control circuit 101 enables the lock mechanism 150 of the image blur correction unit 104 to mechanically lock the image blur correction unit 104. In step S106, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset when the image blur correction unit 104 is mechanically locked by the lock mechanism 150. The system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset by determining whether the image sensor 103a has moved in a direction orthogonal to the imaging optical axis 1000 before and after the mechanical locking based on the detection result of the Hall element serving as the position detection sensor. In the case where the image blur correction unit 104 is configured to be mechanically locked after the image sensor 103a moves to the reference position (i.e., the center of the driving range), the system control circuit 101 may check the difference between the reference position and the position after locking.

[0072] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is not offset (No in step S106), the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes the imaging preparation. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset (Yes in step S106), the process proceeds to step S107. In step S107, the system control circuit 101 moves the image blur correction lens 203 in the image blur correction unit 205 in a direction to eliminate the offset of the imaging optical axis 1000, thereby correcting the imaging optical axis 1000.

[0073] In step S108, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset using the same method as in step S106. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset ("Yes" in step S108), the process returns to step S107. In step S107, the system control circuit 101 corrects the imaging optical axis 1000.

[0074] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is not offset (NO in step S108), the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes imaging preparation.

[0075] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the remaining battery power is less than 50% (NO in step S104 ), the process proceeds to step S109 . In step S109 , the system control circuit 101 activates the lock mechanism 210 of the image blur correction unit 205 to mechanically lock the image blur correction unit 205 .

[0076] In step S110, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset when the image blur correction unit 205 is mechanically locked by the locking mechanism 210. The system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset by determining whether the image blur correction lens 203 has moved in a direction orthogonal to the imaging optical axis 1000 before and after mechanical locking based on the detection result of the Hall element used as a position detection sensor. A known structure can be adopted to detect the position of the image blur correction lens 203 using the Hall element, and its detailed description will be omitted. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is not offset ("No" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes the imaging preparation.

[0077] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset ("Yes" in step S110), the process proceeds to step S111. In step S111, the system control circuit 101 moves the image sensor 103a in the image blur correction unit 104 in a direction to eliminate the offset of the imaging optical axis 1000, thereby correcting the imaging optical axis 1000. In step S112, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset using the same method as that in step S110. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is offset ("Yes" in step S112), the process returns to step S111. In step S111, the system control circuit 101 corrects the imaging optical axis 1000.

[0078] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging optical axis 1000 is not offset (NO in step S112), the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes imaging preparation.

[0079] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the energy saving mode 1 is not selected (No in step S102), the process proceeds to step S113. In step S113, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the energy saving mode 2 is selected. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the energy saving mode 2 is selected (Yes in step S113), the system control circuit 101 sets the energy saving mode 2. Then, the process proceeds to step S114.

[0080] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the energy saving mode 2 is not selected (No in step S113), the system control circuit 101 determines that the user has not selected either the energy saving mode 1 or the energy saving mode 2, and activates both the image blur correction units 104 and 205. Then, in step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes the imaging preparation.

[0081] In step S114, the system control circuit 101 mechanically locks both the image blur correction units 104 and 205. Then, in step S115, the system control circuit 101 completes the image capturing preparation.

[0082] According to the present exemplary embodiment, selecting the energy saving mode 1 can realize an image capturing mode that achieves both image stabilization and energy saving.

[0083] Furthermore, according to the present exemplary embodiment, even if one of the image blur correction units 104 and 205 is mechanically locked, moving the other of the image blur correction units 104 and 205 can suppress the deviation of the imaging optical axis 1000 .

[0084] In the present exemplary embodiment, the system control circuit 101 determines which of the image blur correction units 104 and 205 is to be mechanically locked by using not only the operation mode selection result but also the focal length and the remaining battery power as the determination condition. However, the mode selection result may be simply used as the determination condition. Instead of the change based on the energy saving modes 1 and 2, the user may select a mode in which the image blur correction unit 104 is mechanically locked to perform image blur correction, or select a mode in which the image blur correction unit 205 is mechanically locked to perform image blur correction.

[0085] When performing image blur correction using an image blur correction unit that has been used to correct the displacement of the imaging optical axis 1000, the system control circuit 101 can set the position moved to correct the displacement of the imaging optical axis 1000 as the drive center position and then set the drive range with reference to the drive center position.

[0086] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 A second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described. Figures 1 to 6 The structure according to the present exemplary embodiment is described, and redundant description thereof will be omitted. Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing drive control of the lock mechanism 150 of the image blur correction unit 104 (a flowchart showing image sensor lock processing).

[0087] In the first exemplary embodiment, the technology has been described in which, in a case where the imaging optical axis 1000 is shifted by the lock mechanism 150 or 210 , the unlocked image blur correction unit 104 or 205 is driven to correct the imaging optical axis 1000 .

[0088] In the present exemplary embodiment, a technique for correcting the deviation of the imaging optical axis 1000 caused by mechanically locking the image blur correction unit 104 by moving the image blur correction unit 104 will be described. Figure 7 When step S105 in , the processing in step S201 and subsequent steps (described below) starts.

[0089] The locking mechanism 150 can be moved in a direction parallel to the imaging optical axis 1000 by a motor and a gear train (not shown). When the locking mechanism 150 moves forward, the position of the movable unit 104a is mechanically locked by the friction force from the contact between the elastic members 150a to 150c and the sensor holder 320 of the movable unit 104a. The locking mechanism 150 can be further moved forward from the position where the elastic members 150a to 150c are in contact with the sensor holder 320 to the locking completion position ze where the elastic members 150a to 150c are elastically deformed. Therefore, the force applied to the sensor holder 320 by the elastic members 150a to 150c can be changed in the state where the elastic members 150a to 150c are in contact with the sensor holder 320. In the range from the position where the sensor holder 320 contacts the elastic members 150a to 150c until the locking completion position ze, the pushing force of the movable unit 104a is greater than the friction force from the contact between the elastic members 150a to 150c and the sensor holder 320. Therefore, the movable unit 104a can be driven while being subjected to the friction force.

[0090] In step S201, the system control circuit 101 initializes a variable i to 0. In step S202, the system control circuit 101 sets the position of the image sensor 103a before mechanical locking as an initial position, and stores a horizontal direction coordinate x0 and a vertical direction coordinate y0 in a plane perpendicular to the imaging optical axis 1000. In the following description, the z direction refers to a direction parallel to the imaging optical axis 1000, the x direction refers to a horizontal axis direction of a plane perpendicular to the imaging optical axis 1000, and the y direction refers to a vertical axis direction of the plane.

[0091] In step S203, the system control circuit 101 moves the lock mechanism 150 from the initial position z0 to the lock completion position ze in the z direction. In step S204, immediately after the lock mechanism 150 has moved to the lock completion position ze, the system control circuit 101 acquires the x-direction position xe and the y-direction position ye of the image sensor 103a.

[0092] In step S205, the system control circuit 101 calculates the x-direction offset xs and the y-direction offset ys of the image sensor 103a caused by the movement of the lock mechanism 150 from the initial position z0 to the lock completion position ze by using the following formulas (1) and (2):

[0093] xs=xe-x0 (1)

[0094] ys=ye-y0 (2)

[0095] The difference between the positions before and after mechanical locking is represented by the x-direction offset xs and the y-direction offset ys. The system control circuit 101 determines whether the absolute value of the x-direction offset xs is smaller than a predetermined threshold value X, and determines whether the absolute value of the y-direction offset ys is smaller than a predetermined threshold value Y. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the two absolute values ​​are smaller than the corresponding threshold values ​​X and Y ("Yes" in step S205), the system control circuit 101 determines that the image sensor 103a is maintained at the same position before and after locking (no offset). Then, the imaging preparation is completed.

[0096] If the system control circuit 101 determines that one of the absolute values ​​is equal to or greater than the corresponding threshold value X or Y (NO in step S205), the process proceeds to step S206. In step S206, the system control circuit 101 moves the lock mechanism 150 from the lock completion position ze to the position z(i) in the z direction.

[0097] At this time, the position of the locking mechanism 150 in the z direction is as follows. The locking completion position ze is the most forward position, and the position z(i) is further back than the locking completion position ze, and the larger the value of i is, the closer to the locking completion position ze. More specifically, the system control circuit 101 reduces the force acting on the sensor holder 320 by moving the locking mechanism 150 from the locking completion position ze to the position z(i) along the z direction.

[0098] In step S207, the system control circuit 101 controls the image blur correction unit 104 to move the position of the image sensor 103a to the coordinates (x(i), y(i)). The coordinates x(i) and y(i) are respectively expressed by the following formula (3) and formula (4):

[0099] x(i)=x0-xs (3)

[0100] y(i)=y0-ys (4)

[0101] In step S208, the system control circuit 101 moves the lock mechanism 150 from the position z(i) to the lock completion position ze in the z direction. More specifically, the system control circuit 101 again increases the force applied to the sensor holder 320. In step S209, similarly to step S204, the system control circuit 101 immediately acquires the x-direction position xe and the y-direction position ye of the image sensor 103a after the lock mechanism 150 has moved to the lock completion position ze.

[0102] In step S210, similarly to step S205, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the absolute value of the newly acquired x-direction offset xs is less than a predetermined threshold value X, and determines whether the absolute value of the newly acquired y-direction offset ys is less than a predetermined threshold value Y. If the system control circuit 101 determines that the two absolute values ​​are less than the corresponding threshold values ​​X and Y ("Yes" in step S210), the system control circuit 101 determines that the image sensor 103a is kept at the same position before and after locking (no offset). Then, the imaging preparation is completed. If the system control circuit 101 determines that one of the absolute values ​​is equal to or greater than the corresponding threshold value X or Y ("No" in step S210), the processing proceeds to step S211. In step S211, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the value of the variable i is greater than 10.

[0103] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the value of the variable i is equal to or less than 10 (NO in step S211), the process proceeds to step S212. In step S212, the system control circuit 101 increments the variable i by 1. Then, the process returns to step S206.

[0104] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the value of the variable i is greater than 10 (YES in step S211 ), the image sensor 103 a is shifted before and after locking even after the processing in steps S206 to S212 is repeated a specified number of times. The processing then proceeds to step S213 .

[0105] In step S213, the system control circuit 101 determines whether the imaging lens 200 includes the image blur correction unit 205 (whether the imaging lens 200 is capable of image blur correction). For example, after starting imaging preparation, the system control circuit 101 acquires information on whether the imaging lens 200 includes the image blur correction unit 205 from the imaging lens 200 via the camera communication unit 2.

[0106] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging lens 200 includes the image blur correction unit 205 (YES in step S213), the system control circuit 101 completes the image sensor lock processing. The process then proceeds to Figure 7 Step S107 in .

[0107] If the system control circuit 101 determines that the imaging lens 200 does not include the image blur correction unit 205 (No in step S213), the process proceeds to step S214. In step S214, the system control circuit 101 controls the display unit 54 to display a warning for notifying the user of the deviation of the imaging optical axis 1000, and completes the imaging preparation.

[0108] The present exemplary embodiment can suppress the deviation of the imaging optical axis 1000 when the image blur correction unit 104 is mechanically locked by the lock mechanism 150. Even if the imaging optical axis 1000 is deviated when the image blur correction unit 104 is mechanically locked by the lock mechanism 150, the deviation of the imaging optical axis 1000 can be suppressed by using the image blur correction unit 205.

[0109] In the present exemplary embodiment, although the combination with the first exemplary embodiment has been described as an example, the image sensor lock processing according to the present exemplary embodiment can be applied to any case where the image sensor 103 a is to be mechanically locked regardless of other conditions.

[0110] The present invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments, and the above-described exemplary embodiments may be modified and changed in various ways within the scope of the appended claims.

[0111] For example, the processing performed by the system control circuit 101 of the camera 100 in the above-described first exemplary embodiment and second exemplary embodiment may be executed by a control circuit included in the imaging lens 200 .

[0112] In the above-described first and second exemplary embodiments, although a known method may be used for the image blur correction processing and a detailed description thereof is omitted, image blur correction may be achieved by using other methods other than using the image blur correction units 104 and 205 .

[0113] Other embodiments

[0114] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by providing software (program) for performing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and a computer or a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessing unit (MPU) of the system or device reads and executes the program.

[0115] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A camera device, comprising: a first image blur correction unit including a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the first movable unit, wherein an interchangeable lens including a second image blur correction unit is attachable to and detachable from the image pickup apparatus, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the second movable unit, and In which, the camera device also includes a control unit, which is configured to move the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the offset of the camera optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit, when the interchangeable lens is attached to the camera device and one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising a determination unit configured to determine whether the first movable unit or the second movable unit is mechanically locked, in, The determination unit performs the determination based on an operation mode of the imaging apparatus.

3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein: The determination unit determines to mechanically lock at least one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the operation mode of the imaging apparatus is a power saving mode.

4. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein: The determination unit determines to mechanically lock one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit based on information about a focal length of the interchangeable lens.

5. The imaging device according to claim 4, wherein: The determination unit determines to mechanically lock the second movable unit when the information on the focal length of the interchangeable lens indicates that the focal length is shorter than a predetermined focal length.

6. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein: The determination unit determines to mechanically lock one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit based on information about the remaining battery power of the imaging apparatus.

7. The imaging device according to claim 6, wherein: The determination unit determines to mechanically lock the second movable unit when the information on the remaining battery level of the imaging apparatus indicates that the remaining battery level is less than a predetermined remaining battery level.

8. The imaging device according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect a position of the first movable unit, in, The control unit moves the position of the first movable unit in a case where a difference between the positions detected by the detection unit before and after mechanically locking the first movable unit exceeds a predetermined threshold.

9. The imaging device according to claim 8, in, the first locking mechanism mechanically locks the first movable unit by applying a force to the first movable unit in a direction parallel to the imaging optical axis, and Wherein, when the difference between the positions detected by the detection unit before and after mechanically locking the first movable unit exceeds the predetermined threshold, the control unit reduces the force, then moves the position of the first movable unit, and then increases the force.

10. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit controls the display unit to display a warning when an interchangeable lens not including the second image blur correction unit is attached to the image pickup apparatus and the image pickup optical axis is shifted when the first movable unit is mechanically locked.

11. A camera device, comprising: a first image blur correction unit including a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the first movable unit; as well as a second image blur correction unit including a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the second movable unit, wherein the imaging apparatus corrects image blur of an optical image formed on an image sensor by using the first image blur correction unit and the second image blur correction unit, and In which, the camera device also includes a control unit, which is configured to move the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the camera optical axis offset caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

12. An image blur correction device, comprising: a first image blur correction unit including a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the first movable unit, wherein a second image blur correction device including a second image blur correction unit is attachable to and detachable from the image blur correction device, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the second movable unit, and In which, the image blur correction device also includes a control unit, which is configured to move the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit in a direction for eliminating the offset of the camera optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit when the second image blur correction device is attached to the image blur correction device and one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism.

13. An image blur correction method for correcting image blur of an optical image formed on an image sensor by using a first image blur correction unit and using a second image blur correction unit, wherein the first image blur correction unit includes a first movable unit and a first locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the first movable unit, and the second image blur correction unit includes a second movable unit and a second locking mechanism configured to mechanically lock a position of the second movable unit, the image blur correction method comprising: When one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is fixed by the first locking mechanism or the second locking mechanism, the position of the other of the first movable unit and the second movable unit is moved in a direction for eliminating the offset of the camera optical axis caused by fixing the one of the first movable unit and the second movable unit.

Images