Lens device and method for manufacturing lens device

Abstract

The invention provides a lens device capable of effectively changing optical characteristics related to a lens and a manufacturing method of the lens device. This lens device is provided with: a fixed frame; and a lens frame that holds the lens and is fixed to the fixing frame. The fixed frame has a plurality of engagement portions arranged in a direction around the optical axis. The lens frame has an engaged portion that selectively engages with the plurality of engaging portions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to a lens device and a method for manufacturing the lens device. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a lens barrel, which comprises: a holding frame for holding one or more optical elements; a barrel component having a mounting portion for mounting the holding frame; and an adjustment component, which is arranged between the holding frame and the mounting portion in the optical axis direction of the barrel component and can adjust at least one of the direction of the optical axis of the optical element and the position in the optical axis direction. At least one of the holding frame, the barrel component and the adjustment component has a shape in which a part of the adjustment component is exposed toward the object side or the image side.

[0003] Patent document 2 discloses a lens having: a plurality of lens chambers for holding lens assemblies; and a lens barrel for accommodating the lens chambers. The lens chambers have the same outer diameter, and a window portion is formed on the lens barrel to expose the outer peripheral surface of the lens chamber. By applying a force to the outer peripheral surface of the lens chamber exposed from the window portion, the lens chamber abuts against a positioning member extending parallel to the central axis of the lens barrel.

[0004] Patent document 3 discloses an optical system having a plurality of optical components. In the optical system, a plurality of holding components are provided for supporting the plurality of optical components at a plurality of supporting points, respectively, and a rotation angle of at least one of the plurality of holding components is adjusted to reduce a residual aberration of the optical system caused by deformation between a plurality of supporting points of the plurality of optical components.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-048434

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-004233

[0007] Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-066075 Summary of the invention

[0008] One embodiment of the technology according to the present invention provides a lens device and a method for manufacturing the lens device that can efficiently change optical characteristics related to a lens.

[0009] The first method involved in the technology of the present invention is a lens device, which comprises: a fixed frame; and a lens frame that holds the lens and is fixed to the fixed frame, the fixed frame having a plurality of engaging portions arranged in a direction around an optical axis, and the lens frame having an engaged portion that selectively engages with the plurality of engaging portions.

[0010] A lens device according to a second aspect of the present invention is a lens device according to the first aspect, wherein the rotation angle of the lens frame relative to the fixed frame can be changed by changing an engaging portion that engages with the engaged portion among the plurality of engaging portions.

[0011] A lens device according to a third aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the second aspect, wherein the optical characteristics of the lens can be changed by changing the rotation angle.

[0012] A lens device according to a fourth aspect of the technology of the present invention is the lens device according to the third aspect, wherein the optical characteristics include characteristics related to astigmatism of the lens.

[0013] A lens device according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the lens includes a lens disposed on the object side among a plurality of lenses included in the lens device.

[0014] A sixth aspect of the lens device according to the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the plurality of engagement portions are arranged at intervals of 4 or more and 16 or less in a direction around the optical axis.

[0015] A seventh aspect of the lens device according to the technology of the present invention is the lens device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the interval is divided into eight equal parts.

[0016] A lens device according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the number of engaged portions is smaller than the number of the plurality of engaging portions.

[0017] A lens device according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the number of the engaged portions is one.

[0018] A tenth aspect of the lens device according to the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the fixing frame includes a recognition portion that recognizes a position at which the engaged portion and the engaging portion engage.

[0019] A lens device according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the tenth aspect, wherein the plurality of identification portions include marks arranged in a direction around the optical axis.

[0020] A lens device according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the tenth aspect or the eleventh aspect, wherein the plurality of identification portions are provided on a side surface portion of the fixed frame.

[0021] A lens device according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, wherein the fixing frame has a fixing portion that fixes the lens frame, and the plurality of engagement portions are formed on the fixing portion.

[0022] A lens device according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the thirteenth aspect, wherein the fixing portion is provided at one end portion of the fixing frame in the axial direction.

[0023] A lens device according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to fourteenth aspects, wherein each engaging portion is a concave portion and the engaged portion is a convex portion.

[0024] A lens device according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the fifteenth aspect, wherein the recessed portion is formed in a recessed shape that opens toward the radially inner side of the fixed frame.

[0025] A lens device according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to the fifteenth aspect or the sixteenth aspect, wherein the convex portion is formed in a convex shape that protrudes outward in the radial direction of the lens frame.

[0026] A lens device according to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects, wherein the recessed portion is open to one side in the axial direction of the fixed frame.

[0027] A lens device according to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the fifteenth to eighteenth aspects, wherein the convex portion is formed on an outer peripheral portion of the lens frame.

[0028] A lens device according to a 20th aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the 15th to 19th aspects, wherein the lens frame has a rib portion arranged in line with the convex portion in the optical axis direction.

[0029] A lens device according to a 21st aspect of the present invention is the lens device according to any one of the first to 20th aspects, wherein the fixing frame has a connecting portion, and the lens frame has a connected portion connected to the connecting portion.

[0030] The 22nd method involved in the technology of the present invention is a method for manufacturing a lens device, which is a method for manufacturing a lens device involved in any one of the 1st to 20th methods, and the method for manufacturing a lens device includes: a changing step, by changing a locking portion among a plurality of locking portions that is engaged with a locked portion, thereby changing the rotation angle of the lens frame relative to the fixed frame.

[0031] The manufacturing method of the lens device of the 23rd mode involved in the technology of the present invention is the manufacturing method of the lens device involved in the 22nd mode, wherein the fixed frame has an identification part for identifying the position where the engaging part and the engaged part are engaged, and in the change process, the identification part corresponding to the target rotation angle is extracted from multiple identification parts. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of an imaging device including a lens device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a part of the structure of the lens device in an assembled state.

[0034] Figure 3 It is a perspective view showing a part of the structure of the lens device in an exploded state.

[0035] Figure 4 This is a front view of a fixing frame provided on the lens device as viewed from the object side.

[0036] Figure 5 This is a front view of a lens frame provided in the lens device as viewed from the object side.

[0037] Figure 6 It is a stereogram of a fixed frame.

[0038] Figure 7 It is a five-sided diagram of a fixed frame.

[0039] Figure 8 This is an enlarged perspective view of a main part of the periphery of the convex portion in the lens frame.

[0040] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing the flow of a method for manufacturing a lens device.

[0041] Fig.10 It is a block diagram showing a manufacturing apparatus of a lens device.

[0042] Fig.11 This is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of a computer suitable for use in a manufacturing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] First, the configuration of an imaging device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0044] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the imaging device 10 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging device 10 includes a lens device 12 and an imaging device body 14. The lens device 12 is provided at the front of the imaging device body 14. Figure 1, a lens device 12 and a camera body 14 are schematically shown. The camera body 14 has an image sensor (not shown) and a computer (not shown) built in. With respect to the lens device 12, the arrow A side indicates the object side, and the arrow B side indicates the imaging side. The optical axis OA is the optical axis of the lens device 12. Hereinafter, the axial direction of the optical axis OA is referred to as the "optical axis direction". Furthermore, the direction around the optical axis OA centered on the optical axis OA is referred to as the "direction around the optical axis".

[0045] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a part of the structure of the lens device 12 in an assembled state. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a part of the structure of the lens device 12 in an exploded state. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the lens device 12 includes a lens barrel 16 , a fixed frame 18 , a lens frame 20 , and a lens 22 .

[0046] The lens barrel 16 and the fixed frame 18 are formed into a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical shape mentioned here refers to a cylindrical shape including concave-convex and / or openings on the inner circumference and / or the outer circumference. The lens barrel 16 is arranged on the radial outer side of the fixed frame 18. The lens frame 20 is formed into an annular shape. The annular shape mentioned here refers to an annular shape including concave-convex and / or openings on the inner circumference and / or the outer circumference. A lens 22 is arranged on the radial inner side of the lens frame 20. The lens 22 is held by the lens frame 20.

[0047] As an example, the lens 22 is an objective lens. The lens device 12 includes other lenses (not shown) in addition to the lens 22. Hereinafter, the lens 22 and other lenses are referred to as a plurality of lenses. The plurality of lenses are arranged in an array in the optical axis direction. The lens 22 may be any one of the first lens group arranged on the object side among the plurality of lenses.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a front view of the fixed frame 18 as seen from the object side. Figure 5 This is a front view of the lens frame 20 as viewed from the object side. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the fixing frame 18 has a fixing portion 24 for fixing the lens frame 20 (see also Figure 3 The fixing portion 24 is provided at the end of the fixing frame 18 on the object side. The end of the fixing frame 18 on the object side is an example of "the end on one axial side of the fixing frame" in the technology of the present invention. The fixing portion 24 is formed in an annular shape along the outer periphery of the fixing frame 18.

[0049] The fixing frame 18 has a plurality of screw holes 26. The plurality of screw holes 26 are formed in the fixing portion 24. The plurality of screw holes 26 are arranged in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the plurality of screw holes 26 are arranged at equal intervals in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the number of the plurality of screw holes 26 is 4. Each screw hole 26 is formed along the optical axis direction and opens toward the object side of the fixing frame 18. The screw hole 26 is an example of a "connecting portion" in the technology of the present invention.

[0050] The lens frame 20 has a plurality of flanges 28. The plurality of flanges 28 are formed on the outer peripheral portion 20A of the lens frame 20. The plurality of flanges 28 are arranged in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the plurality of flanges 28 are arranged at equal intervals in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the number of the plurality of flanges 28 is 8. Each flange 28 extends from the outer peripheral portion 20A of the lens frame 20 toward the radially outer side of the lens frame 20. A through hole 30 is formed in each flange 28 and penetrates in the direction of the optical axis. The flange 28 is an example of a “connected portion” in the technology of the present invention.

[0051] As described later, the lens frame 20 can change the rotation angle relative to the fixed frame 18 in units of 45 degrees. In addition, the lens frame 20 is fixed to the fixed frame 18 at a rotation angle determined according to the optical characteristics related to the lens 22. In order to fix the lens frame 20 to the fixed frame 18, the flange 28, the screw hole 26 and the screw 32 are used. That is, the shaft portion of the screw 32 is inserted into the through hole 30 of each flange 28, and the shaft portion of each screw 32 is screwed into the screw hole 26, thereby fixing the lens frame 20 to the fixed frame 18.

[0052] The fixed frame 18 has a plurality of recesses 34. The plurality of recesses 34 is an example of "a plurality of engaging portions" in the technology of the present invention. The plurality of recesses 34 are formed in the fixed portion 24. The plurality of recesses 34 are arranged in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the plurality of recesses 34 are arranged at equal intervals in a direction around the optical axis. As an example, the number of the plurality of recesses 34 is 8. Each recess 34 is formed in a concave shape that opens toward the radial inner side of the fixed frame 18. And, each recess 34 is open toward the object side of the fixed frame 18. The object side of the fixed frame 18 is an example of "one axial side of the fixed frame" in the technology of the present invention.

[0053] Hereinafter, when it is necessary to distinguish and explain the eight recesses 34, the eight recesses 34 will be referred to as "recess 34A", "recess 34B", "recess 34C", "recess 34D", "recess 34E", "recess 34F", "recess 34G" and "recess 34H".

[0054] The lens frame 20 has a convex portion 36. The convex portion 36 is an example of a "engaged portion" in the technology of the present invention. The number of convex portions 36 formed on the lens frame 20 is 1. The convex portion 36 is formed on the outer peripheral portion 20A of the lens frame 20. The convex portion 36 is formed in a convex shape protruding from the outer peripheral portion 20A toward the radial outer side of the lens frame 20.

[0055] The convex portion 36 selectively engages with the plurality of concave portions 34 according to the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 relative to the fixed frame 18. In other words, by changing the concave portion 34 that engages with the convex portion 36, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 relative to the fixed frame 18 can be changed.

[0056] That is, when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34A, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "0°", when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34B, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "45°", when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34C, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "90°", and when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34D, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "135°".

[0057] Furthermore, when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34E, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "180°", when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34F, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "225°", when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34G, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "270°", and when the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34H, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is set to "315°".

[0058] By changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20, the optical characteristics related to the lens 22 can be changed. The optical characteristics mentioned here include, for example, characteristics related to the astigmatism of the lens 22. Astigmatism refers to the aberration that the focal length of light with a point outside the optical axis as the light source deviates in the concentric direction and the diameter direction relative to the lens 22. As a characteristic related to the astigmatism of the lens 22, the imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22 can be cited. In the present embodiment, as an example, the purpose is to suppress the reduction in imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22.

[0059] Although detailed description is omitted, according to the Zernike polynomials, the astigmatism of the lens 22 is presented at a pitch of 45° in the circumferential direction of the lens 22. Therefore, by changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 by 45° at a time, it is possible to suppress the degradation of the imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22. Furthermore, since the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 can be changed by 45° at a time, it is possible to effectively suppress the degradation of the imaging performance compared to, for example, a structure in which the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 can be continuously and arbitrarily changed (i.e., a structure in which the rotation angle can be changed without steps).

[0060] Furthermore, by selectively engaging the convex portion 36 with the plurality of concave portions 34, even when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed to an arbitrary angle, each flange 28 is arranged at a position corresponding to any one of the plurality of screw holes 26. Therefore, by passing the shaft portion of each screw 32 through the through hole 30 and screwing the shaft portion of each screw 32 into the screw hole 26, the lens frame 20 can be fixed to the fixed frame 18 while maintaining the rotation angle of the lens frame 20.

[0061] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the fixing frame 18 . Figure 7 It is a five-sided diagram of the fixed frame 18. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the fixing frame 18 has a plurality of identification parts 38. Each identification part 38 is used to identify the position where the protrusion 36 and the recess 34 are engaged, and is provided at a position corresponding to each recess 34. The number of the plurality of identification parts 38 corresponds to the number of the plurality of recesses 34. As an example, the plurality of identification parts 38 are a plurality of numbers. As an example, the plurality of numbers are 1 to 8.

[0062] As an example, number 1 corresponds to the recess 34A, number 2 corresponds to the recess 34B, number 3 corresponds to the recess 34C, number 4 corresponds to the recess 34D, number 5 corresponds to the recess 34E, number 6 corresponds to the recess 34F, number 7 corresponds to the recess 34G, and number 8 corresponds to the recess 34H. Numbers 1 to 8 are examples of "symbols" in the technology of the present invention.

[0063] The plurality of identification portions 38 are provided on the side surface portion 18A (i.e., the outer periphery) of the fixed frame 18. The plurality of identification portions 38 can be visually recognized from the radially outer side of the fixed frame 18. The numbers 1 to 8 are arranged in ascending order in the direction around the optical axis. In addition, the numbers 1 to 8 may be replaced by a mark (i.e., a mark other than the number) for identifying the position where the convex portion 36 and the concave portion 34 engage. The letters A to H may also be used as the mark.

[0064] The convex portion 36 can be engaged with the concave portion 34 corresponding to the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 through a plurality of identification portions 38. For example, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 needs to be set to "0°", the convex portion 36 can be engaged with the concave portion 34A corresponding to number 1. Furthermore, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 needs to be set to "45°", the convex portion 36 can be engaged with the concave portion 34B corresponding to number 2. Furthermore, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 needs to be set to "90°", the convex portion 36 can be engaged with the concave portion 34C corresponding to number 3. Furthermore, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 needs to be set to "135°", the convex portion 36 can be engaged with the concave portion 34D corresponding to number 4.

[0065] Furthermore, when it is necessary to set the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 to "180°", it is sufficient to engage the protrusion 36 with the recess 34E corresponding to number 5. Furthermore, when it is necessary to set the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 to "225°", it is sufficient to engage the protrusion 36 with the recess 34F corresponding to number 6. Furthermore, when it is necessary to set the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 to "270°", it is sufficient to engage the protrusion 36 with the recess 34G corresponding to number 7. Furthermore, when it is necessary to set the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 to "315°", it is sufficient to engage the protrusion 36 with the recess 34H corresponding to number 8.

[0066] Therefore, for example, when an operator is required to change the rotation angle of the lens frame 20, rather than specifically instructing the operator on the rotation angle of the lens frame 20, instructing the operator on any one of numbers 1 to 8 corresponding to the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 can reduce errors and improve work efficiency for the operator.

[0067] Furthermore, the plurality of identification parts 38 are provided on the side surface 18A of the fixed frame 18. Here, for example, in the case where the plurality of identification parts 38 are provided on the end surface on the object side of the fixed part 24, when the lens frame 20 is fixed to the fixed part 24, there is a possibility that the plurality of identification parts 38 are hidden by the lens frame 20. In this regard, if the plurality of identification parts 38 are provided on the side surface 18A of the fixed frame 18, it is possible to avoid the plurality of identification parts 38 being hidden by the lens frame 20, and thus operability can be ensured.

[0068] In addition, the lens barrel 16 is provided on the radially outer side of the fixed frame 18, but the lens barrel 16 may be assembled to the fixed frame 18 after the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed. On the other hand, before the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed, when the lens barrel 16 is assembled to the fixed frame 18, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed, the position of the lens barrel 16 may be staggered so that the plurality of identification portions 38 are visible.

[0069] Figure 8 It is an enlarged stereoscopic view of the main part of the peripheral portion of the protrusion 36 in the lens frame 20. The lens frame 20 has a plurality of ribs 40. The plurality of ribs 40 are formed on the peripheral portion 20A of the lens frame 20. The plurality of ribs 40 are arranged in a direction around the optical axis. The plurality of ribs 40 are formed on the imaging side relative to the protrusion 36. One rib 40A among the plurality of ribs 40 is formed at a position corresponding to the protrusion 36 and can be connected to the protrusion 36 in the direction of the optical axis.

[0070] If the rib 40A is aligned with the convex portion 36 in the direction of the optical axis, the convex portion 36 can be reinforced by the rib 40A. Furthermore, when the lens frame 20 is molded using a mold, the rib 40A and the convex portion 36 can be pulled out of the mold in one direction, thereby improving the moldability of the lens frame 20 compared to the case where the rib 40A and the convex portion 36 deviate in the direction around the optical axis.

[0071] Next, a method for manufacturing the lens device 12 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0072] Fig. 9 1 is a flow chart showing the process of the method for manufacturing the lens device 12 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 9 As shown, the method for manufacturing the lens device 12 according to the present embodiment includes an assembling step, an adjusting step, a pass / fail determination step, a frequency determination step, and a changing step.

[0073] In the assembly process ST10 , the lens device 12 is assembled by using a plurality of components including the lens barrel 16 , the fixing frame 18 , the lens frame 20 , and a plurality of lenses.

[0074] The adjustment step ST12 is performed after the assembly step. In the adjustment step ST12, the position of at least one of the plurality of lenses including the lens 22 is adjusted in a direction intersecting the optical axis and / or in the optical axis direction.

[0075] The pass / fail judging step ST14 is performed after the adjustment step ST12. In the pass / fail judging step ST14, light is incident on the lens device 12, and the light transmitted through the lens device 12 is imaged. Then, the pass / fail judging related to the image plane of the light image is performed. In the pass / fail judging related to the image plane, the image is judged as either pass, unqualified due to a reason other than the astigmatism of the lens 22, or unqualified due to the astigmatism of the lens 22, based on the form of the image, for example, by pattern matching.

[0076] If the pass is determined in the pass determination step ST14, the manufacturing method of the lens device 12 ends. On the other hand, if the failure is determined to be caused mainly by other than the astigmatism of the lens 22 in the pass determination step ST14, the adjustment step ST12 is executed again. If the failure is determined to be caused mainly by the astigmatism of the lens 22 in the pass determination step ST14, the process proceeds to the number determination step ST16.

[0077] In the number determination step ST16 , it is determined whether the number of times the product is determined to be unacceptable due to the astigmatism of the lens 22 in the pass / fail determination step ST14 is the first time or the second time.

[0078] The change process ST18 is performed after the number determination process ST16. In the case of the first failure, in the change process ST18, it is transferred to the first rotation process ST18A. Then, in the first rotation process ST18A, the lens frame 20 is rotated 90° from the current position. For example, when the current rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is "0°", the convex portion 36 and the concave portion 34C are engaged in such a way that the rotation angle becomes "90°". The astigmatism is a function of a period of 180°, and the rotation angle pitch of the lens frame 20 is set to 45°. Therefore, in the first rotation process ST18A, the angle at which the lens frame 20 is rotated is set to 90° relative to the current position to obtain the maximum improvement in imaging performance.

[0079] On the other hand, in the case of the second failure, in the change process ST18, the process moves to the derivation step ST18B, and the rotation angle (hereinafter referred to as the "target rotation angle") when the aberration angle of the fixed frame 18 is orthogonal to the aberration angle of the lens frame 20 is derived. The aberration angle of the fixed frame 18 refers to the angle of the direction axis of the astigmatism caused by the fixed frame 18. And the aberration angle of the lens frame 20 refers to the angle of the direction axis of the astigmatism caused by the lens frame 20. Although detailed description is omitted, the aberration angle of the fixed frame 18 and the aberration angle of the lens frame 20 are determined by using an inspection device.

[0080] The target rotation angle can be derived from the form of the image obtained in the pass / fail determination process, for example, by pattern matching, or can be derived by a calculation formula, etc. Then, the process moves to the second rotation process ST18C, and the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed according to the target rotation angle. For example, when the current rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is "90°" and the target rotation angle is "135°", the convex portion 36 is engaged with the concave portion 34D in such a way that the rotation angle becomes "135°".

[0081] In addition, in the changing process, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed in a state where each screw 32 is removed from the screw hole 26. After the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed, the shaft portion of the screw 32 is inserted into the through hole 30 of each flange 28, and the shaft portion of each screw 32 is screwed into the screw hole 26, thereby fixing the lens frame 20 to the fixed frame 18.

[0082] After the change process, the process is transferred to the pass / fail determination process again. By performing the change process after the adjustment process, in the pass / fail determination process after the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed, the pass / fail determination can be performed in a state where the influence of the positions of the multiple lenses is eliminated (i.e., the multiple lenses are set at the specified positions).

[0083] In addition, usually, when a target rotation angle is derived for the second failure and the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 is changed according to the target rotation angle, it is judged as qualified in the third pass / fail judgment process, but when it is judged as unqualified again in the third pass / fail judgment process, it can be notified as an abnormality.

[0084] Furthermore, for example, for lens devices 12 manufactured in the same batch, when the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 that becomes qualified in the pass / fail judgment process has a constant tendency, the lens frame 20 can be assembled to the fixed frame 18 at a rotation angle that shows a constant tendency in the assembly process. For example, when a tendency to become qualified is observed in the pass / fail judgment process when the rotation angle is "45°", the rotation angle can be set to "45°" in the assembly process. In this way, the number of times that the lens device 12 is judged as unqualified in the pass / fail judgment process can be reduced compared to the case where the default rotation angle is used regardless of the tendency of the rotation angle.

[0085] Fig.10 1 is a block diagram showing a manufacturing device 50 for manufacturing the lens device 12. The manufacturing device 50 is a device for implementing the manufacturing method of the lens device 12, and includes an assembling device 52, an adjusting device 54, a pass / fail determining device 56, a number determining device 58, and a changing device 60.

[0086] The assembly device 52 is a device for performing the assembly process. The assembly device 52 may include a jig, a conveying device, or an assembly robot, etc., as a device for assembling the lens device 12. The assembly device 52 may perform all the assembly work, or the assembly device 52 and the operator may perform the assembly work in cooperation.

[0087] The adjustment device 54 is a device for performing the adjustment process. The adjustment device 54 may include a fixture, a conveying device, or an adjustment robot, etc., as a device for adjusting the positions of multiple lenses including the lens 22 to a direction intersecting the optical axis and / or the optical axis direction. All adjustment operations may be performed by the adjustment device 54, or the adjustment operation may be performed by the adjustment device 54 and an operator in collaboration.

[0088] The pass / fail judging device 56 is a device for executing the pass / fail judging process. The pass / fail judging device 56, as a device for judging the pass / fail of the image plane formed by the light transmitted through the lens device 12, may include: a light source for incident light on the lens device 12; a camera for photographing the image plane formed by the light; and a computer for judging the pass / fail based on the image output from the camera. The pass / fail judging device 56 may perform all the judging operations, or the pass / fail judging device 56 and the operator may perform the judging operations in cooperation. For example, the image output from the camera may be displayed on a monitor, and the operator may judge the pass / fail based on the image displayed on the monitor.

[0089] The number determination device 58 is a device for executing the number determination process. The number determination device 58 may include a computer as a device for determining the number of times the product is determined to be unqualified in the pass / fail determination process. The function of the number determination device 58 may also be incorporated into the computer of the pass / fail determination device 56. In addition, the number determination device 58 may include a display. Then, the number of times the product is determined to be unqualified may be displayed on the display, and the operator may make a determination based on the number displayed on the display.

[0090] The changing device 60 is a device for changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20. The changing device 60 may include a jig, a conveying device, or a changing robot as a device for changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20. All the changing operations may be performed by the changing device 60, or the changing operations may be performed by the changing device 60 and an operator in cooperation.

[0091] Furthermore, the changing device 60 may include a computer as a device for deriving a target rotation angle for the second failure. The computer may output a command corresponding to the derived target rotation angle to the changing robot, and the changing robot may change the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 to the target rotation angle according to the input command.

[0092] Furthermore, the changing device 60 may include a display. Then, the changing device 60 may display the derived target rotation angle on the display, and the operator may perform the changing operation according to the target rotation angle displayed on the display.

[0093] Furthermore, the changing device 60 may also extract the number of the identification part 38 corresponding to the target rotation angle from the plurality of identification parts 38 provided in the fixed frame 18 according to a table or the like, and display the extracted number on the display. Then, the operator may perform the changing operation according to the number displayed on the display. That is, the changing operation may also be performed so that the convex part 36 engages with the concave part 34 corresponding to the number. In this way, even if the operator does not know the target rotation angle, the changing operation may be performed according to the number, thereby improving the working efficiency compared to the case where the changing operation is performed according to the target rotation angle.

[0094] Fig.11 is a diagram showing the hardware structure of a computer. Fig.11 The computer 70 shown in FIG. 70 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 72, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 74, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 76, a storage device 78, an input / output I / F (Interface) 80, a receiving device 82, a display 84, a speaker 86, and a bus 88. The CPU 72, the ROM 74, the RAM 76, the storage device 78, and the input / output I / F 80 are connected to each other via the bus 88 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0095] A receiving device 82, a display 84, a speaker 86, and the like are connected to the input / output I / F 80. The receiving device 82 includes a mouse, a keyboard, and the like.

[0096] The CPU 72 executes various programs. Specifically, the CPU 72 reads various programs stored in the ROM 74 or the storage device 78, and executes the programs using the RAM 76 as a work area. Then, the CPU 72 performs various calculations according to the programs.

[0097] ROM74 stores various programs and various data. RAM76 temporarily stores programs or data as a work area. Storage device 78 is composed of a recording medium such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive) or flash memory. Storage device 78 stores various programs including an operating system and various data used for calculation processing.

[0098] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0099] As described in detail above, in the lens device 12 according to the present embodiment, the fixed frame 18 has a plurality of recesses 34 arranged in a direction around the optical axis, and the lens frame 20 has a convex portion 36 selectively engaged with the plurality of recesses 34. Therefore, by changing the recess 34 engaged with the convex portion 36 among the plurality of recesses 34, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 relative to the fixed frame 18 can be changed. Thus, the optical characteristics related to the lens 22 can be changed.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, the optical characteristics related to the lens 22 include characteristics related to the astigmatism of the lens 22. As characteristics related to the astigmatism of the lens 22, there can be cited the imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22. Therefore, by changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 relative to the fixed frame 18, the degradation of the imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22 can be suppressed.

[0101] Furthermore, the plurality of recesses 34 are arranged at intervals of 8 equal parts in the direction around the optical axis. Thus, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 can be changed by 45° at a time. Here, according to Zernike's polynomial, the astigmatism of the lens 22 is presented at a pitch of 45° in the circumferential direction of the lens 22. Therefore, by changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 by 45° at a time, the degradation of the imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22 can be suppressed compared to the case where the rotation angle is not changed.

[0102] Furthermore, the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 can be changed by 45 degrees in accordance with the astigmatism of the lens 22 presented at 45 degrees pitch. This can effectively suppress the degradation of imaging performance compared with a structure that can continuously change the rotation angle of the lens frame 20, for example.

[0103] Furthermore, the number of the convex parts 36 is one. Here, for example, when a plurality of convex parts 36 are formed on the lens frame 20 and the number of the plurality of convex parts 36 is the same as the number of the concave parts 34, the accuracy of the intervals between the plurality of convex parts 36 is required in order to engage each convex part 36 with each concave part 34. In this regard, when the number of the convex parts 36 is one, the accuracy of the intervals between the plurality of convex parts 36 is not required compared to the case where a plurality of convex parts 36 are formed on the lens frame 20, so that the convex part 36 can be easily engaged with the concave part 34.

[0104] Next, a modification of the present embodiment will be described.

[0105] In the above embodiment, the fixing frame 18 has a plurality of recesses 34 and the lens frame 20 has a single protrusion 36, but the fixing frame 18 may have a plurality of protrusions 36 and the lens frame 20 may have a single recess 34. In this case, the plurality of protrusions 36 are an example of "a plurality of engaging portions" in the technology of the present invention, and the single recess 34 is an example of "an engaged portion" in the technology of the present invention.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the lens frame 20 has one convex portion 36 , but the number of convex portions 36 may be any number as long as it is a divisor of the plurality of concave portions 34 . In this case, the number of convex portions 36 may be less than the number of the plurality of concave portions 34 .

[0107] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the plurality of recesses 34 are arranged at intervals of 8 equal parts in the direction around the optical axis, but may also be arranged at intervals other than 8 equal parts (e.g., intervals of 4 or more and 16 or less). For example, the plurality of engaging portions may be arranged at intervals of 16 equal parts in the direction around the optical axis.

[0108] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the number of the plurality of flanges 28 is smaller than the number of the plurality of screw holes 26 , but the number of the plurality of flanges 28 may be the same as the number of the plurality of screw holes 26 .

[0109] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the fixing frame 18 has the screw hole 26 and the lens frame 20 has the flange 28, but the fixing frame 18 may have the flange 28 and the lens frame 20 may have the screw hole 26. In this case, the flange 28 is an example of a "connecting portion" in the technology of the present invention, and the screw hole 26 is an example of a "connected portion" in the technology of the present invention.

[0110] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, by changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 , as an example of optical characteristics related to the lens 22 , characteristics related to astigmatism of the lens 22 can be changed, but other optical characteristics related to the lens 22 may also be changed.

[0111] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, as an example of a characteristic related to the astigmatism of the lens 22, the reduction in imaging performance caused by the astigmatism of the lens 22 can be suppressed, but the reduction in other characteristics related to the astigmatism of the lens 22 can also be suppressed, or other characteristics can be improved.

[0112] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the fixing frame 18 is provided with numbers of the identification parts 38 corresponding to the respective recesses 34, but an identifier other than the number may be provided. Furthermore, the fixing frame 18 may also be marked with a rotation angle corresponding to each recess 34 instead of the number. The identifier or the rotation angle that replaces the plurality of numbers is an example of the "identification part" in the technology of the present invention.

[0113] Furthermore, in the method for manufacturing the lens device 12 according to the present embodiment, the adjustment step of adjusting the positions of the plurality of lenses is performed before the changing step of changing the rotation angle of the lens frame 20 , but the adjustment step may be performed after the changing step.

[0114] Furthermore, the above-mentioned modified examples that can be combined can also be combined as appropriate.

[0115] In addition, various processors shown below can be used as hardware resources suitable for the computer 70. As a processor, for example, a general-purpose processor, i.e., a CPU, which functions as a hardware resource by executing software, i.e., a program, can be cited. Also, as a processor, for example, a dedicated circuit such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) can be cited as a processor having a circuit structure specially designed for executing specific processing. Any processor has a memory built in or connected, and any processor executes each process by using the memory.

[0116] The hardware resource may be composed of one of these various processors, or a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, a combination of multiple FPGAs or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Furthermore, the hardware resource that executes each process may be a single processor.

[0117] As an example of a processor, first, there is a method in which a processor is composed of a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and the processor functions as a hardware resource for executing each process. Second, there is a method in which a processor that implements the functions of the entire system including multiple hardware resources for executing each process is used through a single IC chip, as represented by SoC (System-on-a-chip). In this way, each process is implemented using one or more processes among the various processors described above as hardware resources.

[0118] Furthermore, as the hardware structure of these various processors, more specifically, a circuit formed by combining circuit elements such as semiconductor elements can be used. Moreover, each of the above processes is only an example. Therefore, it is of course possible to delete unnecessary steps, add new steps, or change the processing order within the scope of the purpose.

[0119] The recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above are detailed descriptions of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, and are only an example of the technology of the present invention. For example, the description of the above-mentioned structure, function, action and effect is a description of an example of the structure, function, action and effect of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention. Therefore, of course, it is also possible to delete unnecessary parts, add new elements or replace the recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above without departing from the main purpose of the technology of the present invention. In addition, in order to avoid trouble and facilitate understanding of the parts involved in the technology of the present invention, in the recorded contents and illustrated contents shown above, descriptions of technical common sense that does not need to be specifically explained when implementing the technology of the present invention are omitted.

[0120] All documents, patent applications, and technical standards described in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each document, patent application, and technical standard was specifically and individually incorporated by reference.

[0121] Explanation of symbols

[0122] 10-camera device, 12-lens device, 14-camera device body, 16-lens barrel, 18-fixing frame, 18A-side portion, 20-lens frame, 20A-peripheral portion, 22-lens, 24-fixing portion, 26-screw hole, 28-flange, 30-through hole, 32-screw, 34-recess, 36-convex portion, 38-identification portion, 40-rib, 50-manufacturing device, 52-assembling device, 54-adjusting device, 56-qualified or unqualified device, 58-number determining device, 60-changing device, 70-computer, 72-CPU, 74-ROM, 76-RAM, 78-storage device, 80-input / output I / F, 82-receiving device, 84-display, 86-speaker, 88-bus.

Claims

1. A lens device comprising: Fixed frame; and a lens frame, holding the lens and fixed to the fixing frame, The fixing frame has a plurality of engaging parts arranged in a direction around the optical axis. The lens frame includes an engaged portion that selectively engages with the plurality of engaging portions.

2. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: By changing the engaging portion that engages with the engaged portion among the plurality of engaging portions, it is possible to change the rotation angle of the lens frame relative to the fixed frame.

3. The lens device according to claim 2, wherein: By changing the rotation angle, the optical characteristics of the lens can be changed.

4. The lens device according to claim 3, wherein: The optical characteristics include characteristics related to astigmatism of the lens.

5. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The lens includes a lens disposed on the object side among a plurality of lenses included in the lens device.

6. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of engagement portions are arranged at intervals of not less than 4 and not more than 16 equal parts in a direction around the optical axis.

7. The lens device according to claim 6, wherein: The interval is divided into 8 equal parts.

8. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The number of the engaged portions is smaller than the number of the plurality of engaging portions.

9. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The number of the engaged portion is one.

10. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing frame includes an identification portion that identifies a position at which the engaged portion and the engaging portion are engaged.

11. The lens device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of identification portions include marks arranged in a direction around the optical axis.

12. The lens device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of identification parts are arranged on the side surface of the fixing frame.

13. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing frame has a fixing portion for fixing the lens frame. The plurality of engaging portions are formed on the fixing portion.

14. The lens device according to claim 13, wherein: The fixing portion is disposed at an end portion of the fixing frame on one axial side.

15. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the engaging portions is a recessed portion, The engaged portion is a convex portion.

16. The lens device according to claim 15, wherein: The recessed portion is formed in a recessed shape that opens toward the radial inner side of the fixing frame.

17. The lens device according to claim 15, wherein: The convex portion is formed in a convex shape that protrudes toward the radial outer side of the lens frame.

18. The lens device according to claim 15, wherein: The recess is open to one axial side of the fixing frame.

19. The lens device according to claim 15, wherein: The convex portion is formed on an outer peripheral portion of the lens frame.

20. The lens device according to claim 15, wherein: The lens frame has a rib portion arranged along the optical axis direction with the convex portion.

21. The lens device according to claim 1, wherein: The fixing frame has a connecting portion. The lens frame includes a connected portion connected to the connecting portion.

22. A method for manufacturing a lens device, the lens device comprising: a fixing frame; and a lens frame that holds a lens and is fixed to the fixing frame, wherein: The fixing frame has a plurality of engaging parts arranged in a direction around the optical axis. The lens frame has an engaged portion selectively engaged with the plurality of engaging portions. The manufacturing method includes a changing step of changing a rotation angle of the lens frame relative to the fixed frame by changing an engaging portion, among the plurality of engaging portions, which engages with the engaged portion.

23. The method for manufacturing a lens device according to claim 22, wherein: The fixing frame includes an identification portion for identifying a position where the engagement portion and the engaged portion are engaged. In the changing step, an identification portion corresponding to the target rotation angle is extracted from the plurality of identification portions.

Images