Optical adjustment mechanism

Abstract

To provide an optical adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment for adjusting the position and / or the inclination of an optical element.SOLUTION: The optical adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an outer frame; an inner frame held to the outer frame, for holding an optical element; a biasing member arranged around the outer frame, the biasing member biasing the inner frame to the direction of the optical axis of the optical element; and an axial displacement suppression unit for suppressing displacement of the inner frame to a direction perpendicular to the direction of the optical axis with respect to the outer frame. The axial displacement suppression unit includes a protrusion unit arranged in a plurality of parts around the optical axis in the outer frame, the protrusion unit protruding to the direction of the optical axis; and a contact unit formed in the inner frame, the contact unit being in contact with the protrusion unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical adjustment mechanism for adjusting an optical element.

Background Art

[0002] Regarding the technology for adjusting an optical element, for example, Patent Document 1 describes adjusting the inclination of a lens holding frame by rotating a cylindrical cam. Further, Patent Document 2 describes inserting a protrusion into a receiving hole and adjusting the inclination of a lens holding member by an inclination adjustment washer. Further, Patent Document 3 describes adjusting the inclination of a lens holding frame by inserting a guide bar into a hole, and that the sizes and directions of the holes are different.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment according to the technology of the present disclosure provides an optical adjustment mechanism for adjusting the position and / or inclination of an optical element.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the first aspect of the present invention includes an outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member disposed around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the optical axis direction of the optical element, and an axial displacement suppressing portion that suppresses the inner frame from shifting in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction with respect to the outer frame. The axial displacement suppressing portion includes protrusion portions disposed at a plurality of locations around the optical axis in the outer frame and protruding in the optical axis direction, and contact portions formed in the inner frame and contacting the protrusion portions.

[0006] An optical adjustment mechanism according to a second aspect of the present invention further comprises an adjustment mechanism in which a first pressing member presses the inner frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction.

[0007] In the third embodiment of the optical adjustment mechanism, the first pressing member makes point contact with a protrusion provided on the inner frame, as in the second embodiment.

[0008] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the fourth embodiment is, in the second or third embodiment, an eccentric roller, a tapered pin, or a cylindrical cam as the first pressing member.

[0009] In the fifth embodiment, the optical adjustment mechanism, in any one of the second to fourth embodiments, adjusts the position of the inner frame in the optical axis direction and the inclination of the inner frame in a direction intersecting the optical axis, according to the adjustment of the degree of pressure of the first pressing member.

[0010] In the sixth embodiment of the optical adjustment mechanism, in any one of the first to fifth embodiments, the outer circumferential surface of the projection and the contact surface of the contact portion are in point contact.

[0011] In the seventh embodiment, the optical adjustment mechanism, as in the sixth embodiment, has two point contacts between the outer surface of the projection and the contact surface of the contact portion.

[0012] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the eighth embodiment is such that in any one of the first to seventh embodiments, the contact portion is a groove having an inner circumferential surface, and the inner circumferential surface acts as the contact surface.

[0013] In the ninth embodiment, the optical adjustment mechanism is such that the contact portion is an offset portion having an offset surface.

[0014] In the 10th embodiment of the optical adjustment mechanism, the outer surface of the projection and the offset surface of the offset portion make point contact at one point.

[0015] In the 11th embodiment, the optical adjustment mechanism is such that, in any one of the first to tenth embodiments, the contact portions are arranged in three or more locations around the optical axis on the front frame.

[0016] In the twelfth embodiment of the optical adjustment mechanism, in any one of the first to eleventh embodiments, one or more contact portions are arranged in each of the three regions formed by dividing the plane intersecting the optical axis into three equal parts.

[0017] In the optical adjustment mechanism according to the 13th embodiment, in any one of the first to 12 embodiments, the outer circumferential surface of the projection and the contact surface of the contact portion are arcuate surfaces, and the outer circumferential surface and the contact surface intersect and make point contact.

[0018] In the optical adjustment mechanism according to the 14th embodiment, in any one of the first to 13 embodiments, the contact portion is a groove formed in the direction from the outer periphery of the inner frame toward the optical axis center and receiving the projection.

[0019] In the optical adjustment mechanism according to the 15th embodiment, in any one of the first to 14th embodiments, the axial misalignment suppression part is arranged on the inner circumference side with respect to the adjustment mechanism.

[0020] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the 16th embodiment, in any one of the first to 15 embodiments, further comprises a stopper that restricts the inner frame from falling out in the optical axis direction due to biasing force.

[0021] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the 17th embodiment comprises an outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member arranged around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element, and an axial misalignment suppression part that suppresses the inner frame from shifting relative to the outer frame in the direction of the optical axis, wherein the axial misalignment suppression part comprises projections arranged at multiple locations around the optical axis on the outer frame and protruding in the direction of the optical axis, and grooves formed from the outer circumference of the inner frame toward the optical axis center and receiving the projections.

[0022] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the 18th embodiment further comprises an adjustment mechanism in which a first pressing member presses the inner frame in the direction opposite to the biasing direction. The optical adjustment mechanisms according to the 17th and 18th embodiments may have the same configuration as those of the 3rd to 16th embodiments.

[0023] The optical adjustment mechanism according to the 19th aspect includes an outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member disposed around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the optical axis direction of the optical element, an axial displacement suppression portion that suppresses the inner frame from being displaced in the optical axis direction with respect to the outer frame, and an adjustment mechanism that presses the inner frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction by a second pressing member inserted and removed in the optical axis direction. The axial displacement suppression portion includes a protrusion portion disposed at a plurality of locations around the optical axis in the outer frame and protruding in the optical axis direction, and a groove portion formed from the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame toward the optical axis center direction for receiving the protrusion portion.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an imaging system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the first optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the first optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a side view and a perspective view of the first optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the first optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the axial displacement suppression portion and the adjustment mechanism. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view (partial enlarged view) showing the configuration of the axial displacement suppression portion [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the axial displacement suppression portion. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the arrangement relationship between the axial displacement suppression portion and the adjustment mechanism. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification example of the configuration of the axial displacement suppression portion. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the adjustment mechanism. ​​​​​​ [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a preferred arrangement of the first pressing member, the protrusion, and the biasing member. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows another example of the configuration of the first optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 16] Figure 16 shows the adhesive fixing of the first optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is another diagram showing the adhesive fixing of the first optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the second optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows a front view and a perspective view of the second optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a magnified view of a portion of the second optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the axial misalignment suppression unit. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the third optical adjustment mechanism. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a perspective view of the third optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 24] Figure 24 shows the biasing effect provided by the biasing spring. [Figure 25] Figure 25 shows the front and side views of the third optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the third optical adjustment mechanism (assembled state). [Figure 27] Figure 27 shows the configuration of the adjustment mechanism. [Figure 28] Figure 28 shows the configuration of the pivot section. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the line contact at the pivot point. [Figure 30] Figure 30 shows the configuration of the optical axis direction position regulating unit. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is another diagram showing the configuration of the optical axis direction position regulating unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] One embodiment of the optical adjustment mechanism according to the present invention is as follows. The accompanying drawings will be referenced as necessary in the description.

[0026] [First Embodiment] [Adjustment using an optical adjustment mechanism] This section describes the optical adjustment mechanisms (first and second optical adjustment mechanisms) for adjusting the position of optical elements in the optical axis direction and / or the tilt angle in the direction intersecting the optical axis. The optical adjustment mechanism (third optical adjustment mechanism) for adjusting the amount of shift of optical elements (adjustment of position in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction) will be described later in the "Appendix".

[0027] [Configuration of the imaging system] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the imaging system 10 according to the first embodiment. The imaging system 10 comprises a lens device 100, an imaging device body 200, and a monitor 300 (display device), and these elements are arranged along the optical axis L (in the direction of the optical axis).

[0028] [Lens device configuration] As shown in Figure 1, the lens device 100 includes a first optical adjustment mechanism 110 (optical adjustment mechanism) and a second optical adjustment mechanism 150 (optical adjustment mechanism). The first optical adjustment mechanism 110 is a mechanism for adjusting optical elements (e.g., lenses) other than the aperture end (closest to the subject), and the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 is a mechanism for adjusting the optical elements at the aperture end. The lens device 100 may include only one of the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 or the second optical adjustment mechanism 150. Alternatively, the lens device 100 may include multiple first optical adjustment mechanisms 110.

[0029] [Configuration of the imaging device itself] The imaging device body 200 comprises an image sensor 220 and a processor 210. The image sensor 220 includes a light receiving unit, an analog amplification unit, an A / D converter, an image sensor drive unit, etc., and outputs an image signal indicating an image of a subject. As the image sensor 220, a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) type or a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) type image sensor can be used. The processor 210 applies predetermined image processing to the image signal output by the image sensor 220 to display the image of the subject on the monitor 300. The processor 210 consists of a processor such as a CPU, GPU, FPGA, memory (flash memory and ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing image processing programs, etc., as well as RAM (Random Access Memory) used as a temporary storage area), etc.

[0030] The user can use the imaging system 10 configured above to image an object whose shape, dimensions, color, etc., are known (for example, a grid-like chart), display it on the monitor 300, and adjust its position and tilt while viewing the displayed image.

[0031] [Overall configuration of the first optical adjustment mechanism] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the first optical adjustment mechanism 110, and Figures 3, 4, and 5 are a front view, side view, and perspective view of the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 (assembled state), and a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 3, respectively. As shown in these figures, the first optical adjustment mechanism (optical adjustment mechanism) comprises an outer frame 112 (outer frame), an inner frame 114 (outer frame) held by the outer frame 112 and holding a lens (optical element) not shown, and a biasing spring 116 (biasing member) arranged around the outer frame 112 and biasing the inner frame 114 in the direction of the optical axis L (optical axis direction; subject side). The biasing member may be a spring such as a coil spring or a leaf spring, or an elastic body such as rubber or resin.

[0032] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 includes an axial misalignment suppression part 120 (axial misalignment suppression part) that suppresses the inner frame 114 from shifting in a direction intersecting the optical axis direction with respect to the outer frame 112 (including a direction perpendicular to the optical axis L), an adjustment mechanism 118 (adjustment mechanism) that presses the inner frame 114 in the opposite direction to the biasing direction by the biasing spring 116 (towards the imaging device body 200), and an axial misalignment suppression part 120 (axial misalignment suppression part) composed of a projection 122 (projection) and a contact part 124 (contact part).

[0033] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 includes a spring biasing stopper 119 (stopper) that prevents the inner frame 114 from falling out in the optical axis direction due to the biasing force of the biasing spring 116. As will be described later, the falling out of the inner frame 114 can be restricted by multiple adjustment mechanisms 118, but the restriction can be reliably ensured by fixing the inner frame 114 with the spring biasing stopper 119. Note that the spring biasing stopper 119 may be integrally molded with the inner frame 114.

[0034] [Arrangement of the axial misalignment suppression unit and adjustment mechanism] Figure 6 shows the arrangement of the axial misalignment suppression part 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118 in the first optical adjustment mechanism 110. As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the axial misalignment suppression part 120 (projection part 122 and contact part 124) and the adjustment mechanism 118 are arranged in three locations around the optical axis L (around the optical axis) on the inner frame 114. Specifically, one axial misalignment suppression part 120 and one adjustment mechanism 118 are arranged in each of the three regions R formed by dividing a plane perpendicular to (one form of intersection with) the optical axis L into three equal parts. By arranging the axial misalignment suppression part 120 in three locations in this way, the position and inclination of the inner frame 114 can be defined. Note that the phase of arrangement (arrangement position around the optical axis L) of the axial misalignment suppression part 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118 is different.

[0035] [Configuration of the axial misalignment suppression unit] Figure 7 is a perspective view (partially enlarged view) showing the configuration of the misalignment suppression part 120, and Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the misalignment suppression part 120. As shown in these figures, the misalignment suppression part 120 comprises projections 122 (projections) and contact parts 124 (contact parts). The projections 122 are cylindrical members that are arranged in multiple locations (3 locations in these figures) around the optical axis L (around the optical axis) on the outer frame 112 and protrude in the direction of the optical axis L.

[0036] On the other hand, the contact portion 124 is formed in the inner frame 114 and contacts the projection portion 122. Specifically, the contact portion 124 is a U-shaped groove formed from the outer circumference of the inner frame 114 toward the optical axis center and receiving the projection portion 122. Two opposing semi-cylindrical projections 128 (contact surfaces) are provided on the inner circumferential surface 126 of the groove, and the inner circumferential surface 126 and the projections 128 act as contact surfaces.

[0037] [Suppression of misalignment by the axial misalignment suppression unit] The outer circumferential surface of the projection 122 and the contact surface (projection 128) of the contact portion 124 are arcuate surfaces, and when these arcuate surfaces intersect, the projection 128 and the outer circumferential surface of the projection 122 make point contact. This allows adjustment of the inclination of the inner frame 114 relative to the projection 122 (inclination of the inner frame 114 relative to the outer frame 112; in the direction of the double-headed arrow in the arc in Figure 7) and the position in the optical axis direction (position in the direction of the double-headed arrow in the straight line in Figure 7) (Note that in Figure 8, the direction of the optical axis L is shown by a solid line, and the direction intersecting the direction of the optical axis L is shown by a dotted line). Furthermore, the point contact between the projection 128 and the outer circumferential surface of the projection 122 can suppress the shift of the tilt center (center of inclination). Moreover, in the above-described embodiment, since the axial misalignment suppression portion 120 is provided in three or more locations, it is possible to suppress the center misalignment relative to the optical axis L and the rotational misalignment in the plane perpendicular to the optical axis L.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 6, the axial misalignment suppression unit 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118 are arranged at three locations around the optical axis L. However, the axial misalignment suppression unit 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118 may be arranged at four or more locations around the optical axis L, or two or more may be arranged in each of the three regions R.

[0039] [Positional relationship between the axial misalignment suppression unit and the adjustment mechanism] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram (partially enlarged view) showing the positional relationship between the axial misalignment suppression unit 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118 (the shapes of each component are simplified), and the dotted lines in the figure indicate the radial point contact positions of the axial misalignment suppression unit 120 and the adjustment mechanism 118. As shown in Figure 9, by positioning the axial misalignment suppression unit 120 on the inner circumference side (closer to the optical axis L) of the adjustment mechanism 118, it is possible to make it smaller than the configuration that uses the outer circumference of the inner frame 114 to suppress axial misalignment.

[0040] [Modified configuration of the axial misalignment suppression unit] Figure 10 shows a modified configuration of the misalignment suppression part (misalignment suppression part 120A). As shown in part (a) of Figure 10, the contact portion of the misalignment suppression part 120A may be a misaligned portion 127 formed on the inner frame 114A, having a misaligned surface 129. As shown in parts (a) and (b) of Figure 10, the outer circumferential surface of the projection 122 and the misaligned surface 129 of the misaligned portion 127 make point contact at one point by the projection 129A. In part (b) of Figure 10, the direction of movement of the inner frame 114A relative to the outer frame 112 is indicated by a straight double arrow.

[0041] [Configuration of the adjustment mechanism] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of an adjustment mechanism (adjustment mechanism 118). The adjustment mechanism 118 includes a cylindrical cam 118A (first pressing member) and a protrusion 118B. As shown in part (a) of Figure 11, the cylindrical cam 118A is a cylindrical cam with an asymmetric shape with respect to the center of rotation, inserted from the outside of the outer frame 112 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis L, and rotatable around the direction perpendicular to the optical axis L. The protrusion 118B is a semi-cylindrical member provided on the inner frame 114. As shown in part (b) of Figure 11, the generatrix of the cylindrical cam 118A and the generatrix of the protrusion 118B intersect and make point contact.

[0042] [Adjustment of the degree of pressure by rotation of the first pressing member] As shown in Figure 12, the user can change the degree to which the inner frame 114 is pressed in the direction of the optical axis L (opposite to the direction of biasing) by rotating the cylindrical cam 118A (first pressing member). Part (a) of Figure 12 shows the state of maximum pressing, and part (b) of the same figure shows the state of minimum pressing. By adjusting the degree of pressing in this way at the three adjustment mechanisms 118, the user can adjust the position of the inner frame 114 in the optical axis direction relative to the outer frame 112, and the tilt angle of the inner frame 114 in the direction intersecting the optical axis L.

[0043] [Other examples of adjustment mechanism configurations] Figure 13 shows another example of the configuration of the adjustment mechanism. As shown in part (a) of Figure 13, the adjustment mechanism 118 comprises a tapered pin 118C (first pressing member) whose tip is thinner than its base, and a protrusion 118D formed on the inner frame 114. The protrusion 118D may be semi-cylindrical, but is preferably hemispherical. As shown in part (b) of Figure 13, the generatrix of the tapered pin 118C is in point contact with the protrusion 118D, and the user can adjust the degree of pressure by inserting and removing the tapered pin 118C (moving it in the direction of the arrow), similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 11 and 12.

[0044] As shown in the examples in Figures 11-13, it is preferable to set the shape of the protrusions (protrusions 118B, 118D) to match the shape of the first pressing member (cylindrical cam 118A, tapered pin 118C) so that they make point contact. The first pressing member may also be an eccentric roller.

[0045] [Preferred arrangement of the first pressing member, protrusion, and biasing member] Figure 14 is a diagram showing a preferred arrangement of the first pressing member, the protrusion, and the biasing member (an example of the configurations shown in Figures 11 and 12). As shown in the figure, it is preferable that the biasing spring 116 (biasing member) is positioned below the cylindrical cam 118A (first pressing member) and the protrusion 118B (protrusion) in the optical axis direction (vertical direction in Figure 14).

[0046] [Effects of the first optical adjustment mechanism] As described above, according to the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 of the first embodiment, the user can adjust the position and / or tilt angle of the optical elements. After these adjustments, the user may fix the adjustment mechanism 118 and / or the axial misalignment suppression part 120 with an adhesive or resin (for example, a resin that hardens with light, electromagnetic waves, or heat).

[0047] [Securing components with adhesives, etc.] When fixing the components constituting the first optical adjustment mechanism with adhesive or resin, depending on the material of the adhesive or resin, curing shrinkage may be significant, which may cause the relative position between the inner and outer frames to change unintentionally. In this situation, the first embodiment allows the components to be fixed as follows.

[0048] Figure 15 shows the assembled first optical adjustment mechanism 111 (optical adjustment mechanism). As shown in part (a) of the figure, the first optical adjustment mechanism 111 comprises an outer frame 113 (outer frame) and an inner frame 115 (inner frame). The outer frame 113 has a window portion 113A and an edge portion 113B, and the edge portion 113B forms a groove portion 113C between it and the head of the cylindrical cam 118A. The inner frame 115 has a projection portion 115A, which is inserted into the window portion 113A. On the other hand, part (b) of Figure 15 is a partial view showing the projection portion 115A inserted into the window portion 113A as seen from the front (subject side) in the direction of the optical axis L. Preferably, the end face of the projection 115A and the outer circumferential surface of the outer frame 113 are located on the same plane, or the end face of the projection 115A is recessed toward the optical axis center (i.e., it does not protrude beyond the outer circumferential surface of the outer frame 113). Such window portions 113A and projections 115A are provided at three locations in the circumferential direction of the outer frame 113 and inner frame 115. The structure of the first optical adjustment mechanism 111 is otherwise the same as that of the first optical adjustment mechanism 110.

[0049] [Example of a fixing method] Figure 16 shows an example of a method for fixing a component. In the example shown in part (a) of the figure, when fixing the cylindrical cam 118A (first pressing member), for example, a UV-curing adhesive can be applied to the groove 113C (fixing area 700 in the example shown in part). The purpose of this fixing is to fix the rotational position of the cylindrical cam 118A, and since there is no effect on the position of the component due to curing shrinkage of the adhesive, the type of adhesive and the fixing position are not relevant.

[0050] In contrast, when fixing the inner frame 115 and the outer frame 113, it is preferable to consider the effect of curing shrinkage of the adhesive or resin. Specifically, since UV-curing adhesives have a large curing shrinkage force, when using a UV-curing adhesive, it is preferable to apply it in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis L rather than in the direction of the optical axis L. More specifically, as shown in parts (a) and (b) of Figure 16 (partial diagrams similar to part (b) of Figure 15), the UV-curing adhesive can be applied to the gap between the projection 115A and the window 113A, for example, to two fixing areas 710. These two fixing areas 710 are located on a plane perpendicular to the optical axis L.

[0051] In the first optical adjustment mechanism 111, this fixing method prevents hardening shrinkage in the direction of the optical axis L, thus suppressing positional changes of the inner frame 115 relative to the outer frame 113.

[0052] [Other examples of fastening methods] Figure 17 shows another example of a method for fixing the components. The cylindrical cam 118A can be fixed in the same way as described above for Figure 15. For fixing the inner frame 115 and the outer frame 113, in the example shown in Figure 17, a thread locker (e.g., ThreeBond 1401C (product name)) with a hardening shrinkage force smaller than the biasing force of the biasing spring 116 (biasing member) is applied to the gap between the projection 115A and the window 113A (fixing area 720 shown in Figure 17). In this way, the influence on the relative position of the components can be reduced by using a chemical with a small hardening shrinkage force.

[0053] [Overall configuration of the second optical adjustment mechanism] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view showing the overall configuration of the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 (optical adjustment mechanism). Also, parts (a) and (b) of Figure 19 are a front view and a perspective view of the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 (assembled state), respectively. As described above, the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 is a mechanism for adjusting the position and / or tilt of the optical elements (lenses, etc.) at the aperture end (subject side) of the lens device 100. As shown in Figures 18 and 16, the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 comprises an outer frame 151 (outer frame), an inner frame 152 (inner frame) held by the outer frame 151 and holding optical elements not shown, a biasing spring 154 (biasing member), an adjustment mechanism 156 (adjustment mechanism), an axial misalignment suppression part 160 (axial misalignment suppression part), and a spring biasing stopper 159 (stopper).

[0054] Similar to the first optical adjustment mechanism 110, the inner frame 152 is held by the outer frame 151 and holds optical elements (not shown), and the axial misalignment suppression unit 160 suppresses the inner frame 152 from shifting in the optical axis direction relative to the outer frame 151.

[0055] Figure 20 is a magnified view of a portion of the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 (the part containing the axial misalignment suppression section 160, biasing spring 154, spring biasing stopper 159, adjustment mechanism 156, etc.). The adjustment mechanism 156 includes an adjustment screw 156A (second pressing member) that is inserted and removed in the direction of the optical axis. Point contact between the adjustment screw 156A and the outer frame 151 is not essential, but it is preferable to make point contact between the adjustment screw 156A and the outer frame 151 by providing a hemispherical projection on the outer frame 151 or by processing the end of the adjustment screw 156A into a hemispherical shape (providing a convex portion). Biasing springs 154 (two at each of three locations; a total of six) are arranged on both sides of the adjustment mechanism 156 in the circumferential direction. The biasing springs 154 are arranged around the outer frame 151 and bias the inner frame 152 in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element. The spring biasing stopper 159 is screwed into the optical axis direction and fixed to the outer frame 151, preventing the inner frame 152 from falling out in the optical axis direction due to biasing.

[0056] [Configuration of the axial misalignment suppression unit] In the second optical adjustment mechanism 150, the axial misalignment suppression part 160 includes a projection 162 protruding from the outer frame 151 and a groove 163 (contact part that contacts the projection 162) formed from the outer circumference of the inner frame 152 in the direction of the optical axis center (direction of the arrow passing through the projection 162 in Figure 20) that receives the projection 162. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the axial misalignment suppression part 160. In the groove 163 (contact part, groove), a semi-cylindrical projection 164A (with a semi-circular cross-section) is provided at the tip of the inner circumferential surface 164, and the outer circumferential surface (arc surface) of the projection 162 and the projection 164A (arc surface) intersect and make point contact at two points. Furthermore, similar to the first optical adjustment mechanism 110, it is preferable that one or more grooves 163 (contact portion, groove portion) be arranged in each of the three regions formed by dividing the plane perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L into three equal parts (see Figure 6).

[0057] In the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 with the configuration described above, similar to the first optical adjustment mechanism 110, the user can adjust the degree of pressure on the inner frame 152 by screwing (inserting and removing) the adjustment screw 156A (second pressing member) in the direction of the optical axis L. In accordance with this adjustment, the position of the inner frame 152 in the optical axis direction and the tilt angle of the inner frame 152 in the direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L can be adjusted. After adjustment, the user may fix the adjustment mechanism 156 and / or the axial misalignment suppression part 160 with adhesive or resin.

[0058] Similar to the first optical adjustment mechanism, it is preferable to suppress relative positional changes of components due to curing shrinkage of adhesives or resins in the second optical adjustment mechanism 150 as well. Specifically, when using UV-curing adhesives or the like that exhibit large curing shrinkage, it is advisable to apply the adhesive to the gap between the adjustment screw 156A (second pressing member) and the inner frame 152, or to the gap between the projection 162 and the inner circumferential surface 164 of the misalignment 160, rather than applying it to the gap between the inner frame 152 and the outer frame 151. On the other hand, when using screw loosening prevention agents or the like that exhibit small curing shrinkage, the adhesive may be applied to the gap between the inner frame 152 and the outer frame 151.

[0059] Furthermore, in the second optical adjustment mechanism 150, the adjustment screw 156A is screwed in in the direction of the optical axis, making it possible to reduce the diameter compared to the first optical adjustment mechanism, which inserts and removes the cylindrical cam 118A and tapered pin 118C (first pressing member) in a direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L.

[0060] While embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0061] (Note) [Optical adjustment mechanism for adjusting the amount of shift] In addition to the embodiments described above, the following optical adjustment mechanisms are also included in the scope of the present invention. The optical adjustment mechanisms described in the "Notes" are optical adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the amount of shift (positional displacement) of an optical element in a plane perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis.

[0062] (Note 1) Outer frame and, An inner frame held by the outer frame and holding optical elements, A biasing member is arranged around the outer frame and biases the inner frame in a direction intersecting the optical axis of the optical element, A position adjustment member is positioned around the outer frame, inserted and removed in the direction described above, and presses the inner frame in the direction opposite to the direction of the biasing force. A position regulating unit is arranged around the outer frame and regulates the position of the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis, A pivot portion that prevents the inner frame from tilting relative to the outer frame and acts as a fulcrum when the inner frame rotates relative to the outer frame around the optical axis, Equipped with, The pivot portion comprises a projection that is positioned on the outer frame and protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and a contact portion that is formed on the inner frame corresponding to the projection and contacts the projection. An optical adjustment mechanism equipped with this.

[0063] (Note 2) The optical adjustment mechanism described in Appendix 1, wherein the outer circumferential surface of the projection and the contact surface of the contact portion are in line contact.

[0064] (Note 3) The optical adjustment mechanism described in Appendix 2, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the projection and the contact surface of the contact portion are in line contact with two lines.

[0065] (Note 4) The optical adjustment mechanism according to Appendix 2 or 3, wherein the projection has a cylindrical portion, and the side surface of the cylindrical portion makes line contact with the contact surface as the outer peripheral surface.

[0066] (Note 5) The aforementioned outer surface is an arcuate surface, An optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of appendices 2 to 4, wherein the outer peripheral surface and the contact surface are in line contact.

[0067] (Note 6) The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of appendices 2 to 5, wherein the contact portion is a groove having an inner circumferential surface as the contact surface.

[0068] (Note 7) The biasing member is an optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of the appendices 1 to 6, which is arranged in two or more locations around the optical axis on the outer frame.

[0069] (Note 8) The optical adjustment mechanism described in Appendix 7, wherein the pivot portion is positioned closer to one of the biasing members than to the midpoint between the two biasing members.

[0070] (Note 9) The optical adjustment mechanism described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the position adjustment member is arranged opposite the biasing member across the optical axis.

[0071] (Note 10) The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of the appendices 1 to 9, wherein the inner frame is provided with a plurality of protrusions corresponding to the position adjustment member, and the position adjustment member is in line contact with the protrusions.

[0072] (Note 11) The position adjustment member is a columnar member that is inserted and removed in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, and comprises a columnar member with one end face being flat. The projection has a semi-cylindrical convex portion that extends in the direction of the optical axis. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein the plane of the position adjustment member is in line contact with the convex portion of the projection.

[0073] (Note 12) The outer frame is provided with a window portion that extends in the direction of the optical axis and in the circumferential direction of the optical axis. The inner frame is provided with a shaft portion extending from the main body of the inner frame in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis, An optical adjustment mechanism wherein the shaft portion is inserted into the window portion, and the movement of the shaft portion is restricted to the inside of the window portion, thereby restricting the movement of the inner frame relative to the outer frame in the direction of the optical axis to the range of the window portion's spread in the direction of the optical axis, and restricting the rotation of the inner frame about the optical axis to the range of the window portion's spread in the circumferential direction to any one of the features described in Appendix 1 to 11.

[0074] [Configuration of the third optical adjustment mechanism] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view of the third optical adjustment mechanism 500 (optical adjustment mechanism) relating to the configuration described in the appendix, and Figures 23 to 25 are perspective views, front views, side views, and cross-sectional views of the third optical adjustment mechanism 500 (assembled state), respectively. As shown in Figures 22 to 22, the third optical adjustment mechanism 500 comprises an outer frame 510 (outer frame, fixed frame), an inner frame 530 (inner frame) held by the outer frame 510 and holding optical elements not shown, such as lenses, biasing springs 512 (biasing members) arranged at two (multiple) locations around the optical axis L of the outer frame 510 and biasing the inner frame 530 in a direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis of the optical elements, and insertable and removable in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis L, biasing the inner frame 530 by the biasing springs 512. The device includes an adjustment mechanism 514 (including an adjustment screw 514A; position adjustment member) that presses in the opposite direction to the direction of the optical axis L, an inner frame restricting part 516 (position restricting part, rotation restricting part) arranged at three (multiple) locations around the optical axis L of the outer frame 510 to restrict the position of the inner frame 530 in the direction of the optical axis L and the rotation of the inner frame 530 around the optical axis L, and a pivot part 520 (pivot part) that suppresses the inner frame 530 from tilting relative to the outer frame 510 and acts as a fulcrum when the inner frame 530 rotates relative to the outer frame 510 around the optical axis L.

[0075] [Bounced by a biasing spring] Figure 26 shows how the biasing spring 512 (biasing member) biases the inner frame 530 in a direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L (in the direction of the arrow in the figure). As shown in Figures 22 and 22, a spring biasing stopper 518 is positioned on the outside (outer circumference) of the biasing spring 512 to prevent the biasing spring 512 from falling outwards.

[0076] [Configuration of the adjustment mechanism] Figure 27 shows the configuration of the adjustment mechanism 514 (adjustment mechanism, position adjustment member). The adjustment mechanism 514 comprises an adjustment screw 514A (position adjustment member) and a projection 514B formed on the inner frame 530. The adjustment screw 514A is a columnar member that is inserted and removed in a direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L (left-right direction in Figure 27), and one end face is a flat surface 514C. The projection 514B is a semi-cylindrical convex portion that extends in the direction of the optical axis L (perpendicular to the plane of the paper), and the flat surface 514C of the adjustment screw 514A and the convex portion of the projection 514B are in line contact. As shown in Figures 22, 22, etc., the biasing spring 512 and the adjustment mechanism 514 are provided opposite each other with the optical axis L in between. The user can adjust the position of the inner frame 530 in a plane perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis by inserting and removing the two adjustment screws 514A (inserting and removing the adjustment screws 514A moves the inner frame 530 in the vertical direction in Figure 26). In Figure 27, the straight double arrows indicate the directions in which the adjustment screws 514A and the inner frame 530 can move.

[0077] [Configuration of the pivot section] Figure 28 shows the configuration of the pivot portion 520 (viewed from the direction of the optical axis L). The pivot portion 520 is arranged on the outer frame 510 and includes a projection 521 that protrudes in a direction perpendicular (intersecting) to the optical axis L, and a contact portion 522 formed on the inner frame 530 corresponding to the projection 521 and in contact with the projection 521. The projection 521 has an arm 525 extending from the outer frame 510 and semi-cylindrical cylindrical portions 526 (cylindrical portions) formed on both sides of the tip of the arm 525, with the side surface (outer peripheral surface) of the cylindrical portion 526 being an arc surface. On the other hand, the contact portion 522 is a groove portion having an inner peripheral surface 523 as a contact surface. (An arcuate surface 524 is formed at the back (inner circumference side) of the groove.) Then, the two cylindrical portions 526 of the projection 521 and the inner circumference surface 523 of the contact portion 522 make line contact (line contact with two lines). Figure 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the line contact in the pivot portion 520 (how the cylindrical portions 526 and the inner circumference surface 523 make line contact).

[0078] The pivot portion 520 with this configuration suppresses the inner frame 530 from tilting relative to the outer frame 510 in a direction intersecting the optical axis L, and also serves as a fulcrum when the inner frame 530 rotates around the optical axis L (in a plane intersecting the optical axis L) (in Figure 28, the straight and arc-shaped double arrows indicate the direction of movement and rotation of the inner frame 530 relative to the outer frame 510). The pivot portion 520 is positioned closer to one of the biasing springs 512 (biasing members) than to the midpoint in the circumferential direction of the two biasing springs 512 (biasing members). Specifically, as shown in Figure 25, the pivot portion 520 is positioned closer to the biasing spring 512 shown at the bottom of the figure. This presses the inner frame 530 to one side, suppressing rattle between it and the outer frame 510.

[0079] [Image showing the position and rotation restrictions of the inner frame] Figure 30 is a partial perspective view showing the position and rotation restrictions of the inner frame 530. The outer frame 510 is provided with a window portion 517 that extends in the direction of the optical axis L (height H) and in the circumferential direction of the optical axis L (width W), and the inner frame 530 is provided with a shaft portion 516A that extends from the main body of the inner frame 530 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis L. The shaft portion 516A is inserted into the window portion 517, and the movement of the shaft portion 516A is restricted to the inside of the window portion 517. These shaft portion 516A and window portion 517 constitute the inner frame restricting portion 516. Specifically, the movement of the inner frame 530 relative to the outer frame 510 in the direction of the optical axis L is restricted to the range of the window portion 517's extension in the direction of the optical axis L (the range of height H in Figure 30), and the rotation of the inner frame 530 relative to the outer frame 510 (rotation around the optical axis L) is restricted to the range of the window portion 517's extension (the range of width W in Figure 30). Furthermore, the shaft portion 516A slides along the edge portion 517A of the window portion 517.

[0080] Figure 31 shows how the window portion 517 restricts the optical axis position of the inner frame 530 (shaft portion 516A). The diameter of the shaft portion 516A (height H or less) can be determined according to the allowable amount of movement in the optical axis direction.

[0081] In addition, in the third optical adjustment mechanism 500 with the above-described configuration, similar to the first optical adjustment mechanism 110 and the second optical adjustment mechanism 150, the adjustment mechanism 514 and / or the inner frame regulating part 516 may be fixed with an adhesive or the like after the inner frame 530 has been adjusted. For example, an adhesive or resin may be applied around the head of the adjustment screw 514A, or in the gap between the shaft part 516A and the edge part 517A of the window part 517 (for example, two locations in the vertical direction along the optical axis L in Figure 31). In this case as well, similar to the above-described embodiment, it is preferable to apply the agent to a position (area) where the effect of hardening shrinkage can be suppressed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0082] 10 Imaging System 100 Lens device 110 1st optical adjustment mechanism 111 1st optical adjustment mechanism 112 Outer frame 113 Outer frame 113A Window section 113B Edge 114 Inner frame 114A Inner frame 115 Inner frame 115A Protrusion 116. Biasing spring 118 Adjustment mechanism 118A Cylindrical Cam 118B protrusion 118C Tapered Pin 118D protrusion 119 Spring bias stopper 120 Axis misalignment suppression unit 120A Axial misalignment suppression unit 122 Protrusion 124 Contact area 126 Inner surface 127 Katayose 128 Protrusion 129 Katayose surface 129A protrusion 150 Second optical adjustment mechanism 151 Outer frame 152 Inner frame 154 biasing spring 156 Adjustment mechanism 156A Adjustment Screw 159 Spring-driven stopper 160 Axial misalignment suppression unit 162 Protrusion 163 Groove 164 Inner surface 164A protrusion 200 Imaging device main unit 210 processors 220 image sensors 300 monitors 500 Third optical adjustment mechanism 510 Outer frame 512 biasing spring 514 Adjustment mechanism 514A Adjustment Screw 514B Protrusion 514C plane 516 Inner frame regulation section 516A Shaft 517 Window section 517A Edge 518 Spring-driven stopper 520 Pivot section 521 Protrusion 522 Contact area 523 Inner surface 524 Circular arc surface 525 Arm 526 Cylindrical section 530 Inner frame 700 fixed area 710 Fixed area 720 fixed area H Height L optical axis R area

Claims

1. An outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member disposed around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element, an axial displacement suppressing portion that suppresses displacement of the inner frame with respect to the outer frame in a direction intersecting the direction of the optical axis, characterized in that it comprises: the axial displacement suppressing portion includes a protrusion portion disposed at a plurality of locations around the optical axis in the outer frame and protruding in the direction of the optical axis, and a contact portion formed on the inner frame and contacting the protrusion portion, and is an optical adjustment mechanism.

2. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising an adjustment mechanism that presses the inner frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction by a first pressing member.

3. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 2, wherein the first pressing member makes point contact with a convex portion provided on the inner frame.

4. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first pressing member is an eccentric roller, a taper pin, or a cylindrical cam.

5. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the position of the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis and the inclination of the inner frame in a direction intersecting the optical axis are adjusted according to the adjustment of the pressing degree of the first pressing member.

6. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and the contact surface of the contact portion are in point contact.

7. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 6, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and the contact surface of the contact portion are in point contact at two points.

8. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 6, wherein the contact portion is a groove portion having an inner peripheral surface, and the inner peripheral surface acts as the contact surface.

9. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the contact portion is an offset portion having an offset surface.

10. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 9, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and the offset surface of the offset portion are in point contact at one point.

11. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the contact portion is disposed at three or more locations around the optical axis in the inner frame.

12. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the contact portion is disposed in each of three regions formed by equally dividing a plane intersecting the optical axis.

13. The outer peripheral surface of the protrusion portion and the contact surface of the contact portion are arc surfaces, and the outer peripheral surface and the contact surface intersect and are in point contact. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the contact portion is a groove portion formed from the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis center and receiving the protrusion portion.

15. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the axial displacement suppression portion is disposed on the inner peripheral side with respect to the adjustment mechanism.

16. The optical adjustment mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer frame further includes a stopper that restricts the inner frame from dropping off in the direction of the optical axis due to the biasing force.

17. An outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member disposed around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element, an axial displacement suppression portion that suppresses the inner frame from being displaced in the direction of the optical axis with respect to the outer frame, comprising: The axial displacement suppression portion includes a protrusion portion disposed at a plurality of locations around the optical axis in the outer frame and protruding in the direction of the optical axis, and a groove portion formed from the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis center and receiving the protrusion portion. The optical adjustment mechanism.

18. The optical adjustment mechanism according to claim 17, further comprising an adjustment mechanism that presses the inner frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction by a first pressing member.

19. An outer frame, an inner frame held by the outer frame and holding an optical element, a biasing member disposed around the outer frame and biasing the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis of the optical element, an axial displacement suppression portion that suppresses the inner frame from being displaced in the direction of the optical axis with respect to the outer frame, an adjustment mechanism that presses the inner frame in a direction opposite to the biasing direction by a second pressing member inserted and removed in the direction of the optical axis, comprising: The axial displacement suppression portion includes a protrusion portion disposed at a plurality of locations around the optical axis in the outer frame and protruding in the direction of the optical axis, and a groove portion formed from the outer peripheral portion of the inner frame in the direction of the optical axis center and receiving the protrusion portion. The optical adjustment mechanism.

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