Lens barrel

Abstract

To provide a lens barrel capable of switching between an imaging state and a collapsed state.SOLUTION: A lens barrel 1 is capable of switching between an image state and a collapsed state, and comprises: a first frame 70 having a first face 211 and a second face 212 having an inclination in the optical axis direction, and a third face 213 located between the first face and the second face and orthogonal to the optical axis; a second frame 80 capable of rotating relatively to the first frame; a biasing member 310 held to the second frame; and a movement member 320 located movably in the optical axis direction and brought into contact with the first frame by a bias force F1 of the biasing member. In the collapsed state, the movement member is capable of contacting the first face, and during a transition state of transiting from the collapsed state to the imaging state, the movement member comes into contact with the third face and slides. In the imaging state, the movement member comes into contact with the first frame, and the biasing member generates a bias force in the optical axis direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a lens barrel. This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-154296, filed on August 20, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Lens barrels that can be switched between a shooting state and a retracted state are known in the art. The retracted state can be switched to the shooting state by sliding a switch (zoom lock mechanism) (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-111315 A Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lens barrel switchable between a retracted state and a shooting state, comprising: a first frame having first and second surfaces inclined in the optical axis direction, and a third surface arranged between the first and second surfaces and perpendicular to the optical axis; a second frame rotatable relative to the first frame; a biasing member held by the second frame; and a movable member arranged to be movable in the optical axis direction and abutting against the first frame by the biasing force of the biasing member, wherein in the retracted state, the movable member can abut against the first surface, and during a transition state from the retracted state to the shooting state, the movable member abuts against the third surface and slides, and in the shooting state, the movable member abuts against the first frame, and the biasing member generates a biasing force in the optical axis direction. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a lens barrel. [Diagram 2] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the relative movement of moving pieces. [Diagram 3] 11A to 11C are diagrams showing examples of the shape of a recess provided in a second member and / or the shape of a moving piece. [Figure 4] 11A to 11C are diagrams showing examples of shapes of protrusions of moving pieces. [Diagram 5] 3A and 3B are cross-sectional views showing a telephoto end imaging state and a retracted state of the lens barrel. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the fixed frame and the zoom ring. [Figure 9] FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the lens barrel. [Figure 11] 11A and 11B are diagrams showing an installation structure of a biasing member. [Figure 12] 13A and 13B are diagrams showing another installation structure of the urging member. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a camera (imaging device). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] The drawings and description are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but are merely exemplary and intended to illustrate the subject matter disclosed in the claims for the understanding of those skilled in the art.

[0007] Fig. 1 shows a general configuration of a lens barrel 1. As shown in Fig. 1, the lens barrel 1 includes a first member (first frame) 70, a second member (second frame) 80, and a biasing mechanism 300. The biasing mechanism 300 has a biasing member 310 and a moving piece (moving member) 320.

[0008] The first member 70 and the second member 80 have a relationship in which the first member 70 and the second member 80 are relatively movable at least in the D1 direction (first direction). The D1 direction can be set to any direction with respect to the optical axis direction of the lens barrel 1. In one embodiment, the D1 direction is parallel to a predetermined plane that intersects with or is perpendicular to the optical axis direction (retracted direction, thrust direction, vertical direction) of the lens barrel 1. Alternatively, the D1 direction is parallel to the radial direction (horizontal direction) of the lens barrel 1. In another embodiment, the D1 direction is parallel to the optical axis direction (retracted direction, thrust direction, vertical direction) of the lens barrel 1. Alternatively, the D1 direction is parallel to a predetermined plane that intersects with or is perpendicular to the radial direction (horizontal direction) of the lens barrel 1. For example, the D1 direction can be a circumferential direction around the optical axis, a circumferential direction around a predetermined axis other than the optical axis, a linear direction that intersects with the optical axis, a linear direction that is inclined with respect to the optical axis, or a linear direction that is parallel to the optical axis.

[0009] The biasing member (biasing portion, biasing body, spring) 310 is held, supported, and / or fixed to the first member 70. Any type of spring can be used as the biasing member 310. For example, the biasing member 310 can be a coil spring (compression coil spring or tension coil spring), a leaf spring, a torsion spring, a gas spring (air spring), a magnetic spring, or the like. One type of biasing member 310 can be used alone, or multiple types of biasing members 310 can be used in combination. The biasing member 310 is disposed on the first member 70 so as to exert biasing forces (F1, F2).

[0010] In one embodiment, the axis of the biasing member 310 is arranged along the D2 direction (second direction). In another embodiment, the axis of the biasing member 310 is arranged along a direction different from the D2 direction. The D2 direction is a direction intersecting the D1 direction or perpendicular to the D1 direction. In one embodiment, the D2 direction is parallel to the optical axis direction of the lens barrel 1. In another embodiment, the D2 direction is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction of the lens barrel 1, parallel to the radial direction of the lens barrel 1, or parallel to a predetermined plane intersecting with the optical axis direction of the lens barrel 1 or parallel to a predetermined plane perpendicular to the optical axis direction. For example, the D2 direction can be a linear direction parallel to the optical axis, a linear direction inclined with respect to the optical axis, or a linear direction intersecting with the optical axis.

[0011] The moving piece (moving member, contact portion, contact piece, physical contact) 320 is arranged to be movable at least in the direction D2. In one embodiment, the movement axis of the moving piece 320 is arranged parallel to and / or coaxial with the axis of the biasing member 310. In this case, it is advantageous to make the biasing mechanism 300 compact in a direction intersecting the movement axis of the moving piece 320 and / or to simplify the configuration of the biasing mechanism 300. In another embodiment, the movement axis of the moving piece 320 is arranged non-parallel to and / or non-coaxial with the axis of the biasing member 310. In this case, it is advantageous to make the biasing mechanism 300 compact in a direction along the movement axis of the moving piece 320.

[0012] The moving piece 320 receives a biasing force exerted by the biasing member 310. One or more biasing members 310 are provided for one moving piece 320. Alternatively, one biasing member 310 is provided for multiple moving pieces 320. The force from the biasing member 310 pushes the moving piece 320 toward the second member 80. When the moving piece 320 directly or indirectly contacts the second member 80, the force from the biasing member 310 acts on the second member 80 at least along the D2 direction. Such an acting force can be used, for example, to apply a load in the D2 direction to a specific member. The load in the D2 direction contributes to a holding force between the two members and / or a user's sense of operation when the user manually operates the relative movement between the two members.

[0013] 1, LA1 is the movement range of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction (movement length in the D2 direction, maximum movement range, movement amount). LA2 is the length in the D2 direction corresponding to the area (area BA1) set in the first member 70 for the biasing member 310. For example, the area BA1 includes the arrangement area of ​​the biasing member 310, and LA2 is the distance (maximum distance) from one end to the other end along the D2 direction of the biasing member 310 arranged in the area BA1.

[0014] In one embodiment, LA2 can be about 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000% or more of LA1. Alternatively, LA1 can be 1 / 3, 1 / 4, 1 / 5, 1 / 6, 1 / 7, 1 / 8, 1 / 9, or 1 / 10 or less of LA2. The above values ​​are representative examples, and other values ​​may be applicable in other examples.

[0015] In one embodiment, the biasing mechanism 300 can have a biasing member 310 with a relatively large spring length (free length (total length, free height)) in an unloaded state and a relatively small maximum width or outer diameter. In other words, by accepting the large free length of the biasing mechanism 300, a slim size of the biasing member 310 is realized. The slim size of the biasing member 310 is preferably applied to a narrow installation space and is advantageous for flexible design. The biasing member 310 with a large free length is preferably applied to a high load condition. The lens barrel 1 is securely held by the high holding force of the biasing mechanism 300. As a result, it is possible to omit or simplify mechanisms and / or parts that were required in conventional lens barrels, such as a conventional zoom lock mechanism and a rattle removal mechanism.

[0016] In one embodiment, the biasing member 310 is a compression coil spring, and when the outer diameter (or maximum width) of the biasing member 310 is LA3 (not shown) and the free length of the biasing member 310 is LA4 (not shown), LA4 can be about 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, 2000, 3000, 4000% or more of LA3. Alternatively, LA3 can be 1 / 2 or more and 1 / 4, 1 / 6, 1 / 8, 1 / 10, 1 / 12, 1 / 14, 1 / 16, 1 / 18, 1 / 20, 1 / 30, or 1 / 40 or less of LA4. The above values ​​are representative examples, and other values ​​can be applied in other examples. The high ratio of the free length to the outer diameter (slimness ratio) provides the biasing member 310 that can handle high loads and is slim.

[0017] In one embodiment, the biasing member 310 is a compression coil spring, and when the maximum deflection (maximum deflection in use, maximum deflection, total deflection) which is the displacement of the biasing member 310 from the no-load state (free length) to the maximum operating position is LA5 (not shown), LA5 can be about 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000% or more with respect to LA1 (movement range of the moving piece 320). Alternatively, LA1 can be 1 / 2, 1 / 3, 1 / 4, 1 / 5, 1 / 6, 1 / 7, 1 / 8, 1 / 9, or 1 / 10 or less of LA5. The above values ​​are representative examples, and other values ​​can be applied in other examples. That is, the biasing member 310 has a relatively large maximum deflection with respect to the movement range of the moving piece 320.

[0018] Here, by setting the ratio of LA5 to LA1 (allowable deflection ratio) relatively high, the load change with respect to the change in the deflection amount is suppressed. That is, a large change in the load in response to a slight change in the position of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction is avoided. For example, in the biasing mechanism 300, the movement of the moving piece 320 can be smoothly absorbed by the biasing member 310 while maintaining a high load state. The user's operational feel is improved with respect to the manual operation of the relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80 while maintaining high retention using the load (force) of the biasing mechanism 300. In addition, such a biasing mechanism 300 is also advantageous in assembly and adjustment.

[0019] In one embodiment, the biasing member 310 is disposed along the wall of the first member 70, and at least a portion of the biasing member 310 is disposed within the range of the thickness of the wall of the first member 70. Alternatively, the main extension direction of the overall shape of the biasing member 310 is disposed along the extension direction of the wall of the first member 70, and at least a portion of the biasing member 310 is disposed inside the wall of the first member 70. In this embodiment, the protruding height of the biasing mechanism 300 from the wall surface is suppressed, and unnecessary interference of the biasing member 310 with other members is avoided.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first member 70 is provided with holes (slots, grooves) 110 for the biasing member 310 and the moving piece 320. The holes 110 may be through holes or non-through holes. The holes 110 may have a groove shape provided at the end of the first member 70. The holes 110 for the biasing member 310 and the holes 110 for the moving piece 320 may be connected to each other or provided separately. At least a part of the biasing member 310 and at least a part of the moving piece 320 are disposed in the holes 110. For example, the entire or most part of the slim-sized biasing member 310 may be accommodated in the holes 110. The shape of the holes 110 can be set arbitrarily. When the moving axis of the moving piece 320 is parallel and / or coaxial with the axis of the biasing member 310, the holes 110 may have a simple shape and the opening area thereof may be minimized.

[0021] In one embodiment, the hole 110 has sliding walls 121, 122 that guide the movement of the moving piece 320. The movement of the moving piece 320 in a direction intersecting the moving direction is restricted by restricting portions provided on the sliding walls 121, 122. For example, the sliding walls 121, 122 have wall surfaces provided parallel to the moving axis of the moving piece 320 as restricting portions. The moving piece 320 moves along the wall surfaces of the sliding walls 121, 122. The sliding walls 121, 122 enable the moving piece 320 to move smoothly.

[0022] In one embodiment, the moving piece 320 has slide surfaces 321, 322 arranged facing the wall surfaces of the slide walls 121, 122, respectively. The slide surfaces 321, 322 are provided parallel to the moving axis of the moving piece 320. When the length of the slide walls 121, 122 along the moving axis is LA6 (not shown), LA6 can be about 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000% or more of LA1 (the moving range of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction). Alternatively, LA1 can be 1 / 3, 1 / 4, 1 / 5, 1 / 6, 1 / 7, 1 / 8, 1 / 9, or 1 / 10 or less of LA6. The above values ​​are representative examples, and other values ​​can be applied in other examples. The slide surfaces 321, 322 reliably restrict the movement of the moving piece 320 in a direction intersecting the moving direction over the entire moving range. In the biasing mechanism 300, although the configuration is simple, the occurrence of kinks during the movement of the moving piece 320 is avoided, and smoother movement of the moving piece 320 is achieved.

[0023] In one embodiment, the moving piece 320 is made of a material different from that of the biasing member 310. Also, the attitude of the moving piece 320 can be restricted and / or controlled substantially independently of the biasing member 310. That is, the attitude of the moving piece 320 can be restricted and / or controlled with high precision. As a result, as described below, surface contact between the first member 70 and the second member 80 is reliably achieved. Alternatively, as described below, highly precise torque control for relative movement is reliably achieved.

[0024] The moving piece 320 can be positioned in the D2 direction by directly or indirectly contacting the second member 80 or another member different from the second member 80. The amount of deflection of the biasing member 310 (and the biasing force (spring load) of the biasing member 310) changes in response to a change in the position of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction.

[0025] In one embodiment, the second member 80 has a first surface 211 and a second surface 212, which are different in position in the D1 direction (first direction). The first surface 211 and the second surface 212 are parallel to the D1 direction, and are different in position in the D2 direction (second direction). In FIG. 1(a), when the moving piece 320 is in contact with the first surface 211, the biasing member 310 exerts a biasing force F1. In addition, a force (operating force, torque) T1 is required for the relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80. In addition, the moving piece 320 and the first surface 211 can contact each other on their surfaces. By contacting each other on their surfaces, the biasing force F1 can be efficiently transmitted to the second member 80. In FIG. 1(b), when the moving piece 320 is in contact with the second surface 212, the biasing member 310, whose deflection amount has increased, exerts a biasing force F2 larger than F1. In other words, the biasing force F1 of the biasing member 310 when the moving piece 320 is in contact with the first surface 211 is smaller than the biasing force F2 of the biasing member 310 when the moving member 320 is in contact with the second surface 212. Similarly, the biasing force of the biasing member 310 when the moving piece 320 is in contact with the fifth surface 215 described later is smaller than the biasing force of the biasing member 310 when the moving member 320 is in contact with the second surface 212. In addition, a force (operation force, torque) T2 larger than T1 is required for relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80. In addition, the moving piece 320 and the second surface 212 can be in contact with each other on their surfaces. By making contact on their surfaces, the biasing force F2 can be efficiently transmitted to the second member 80.

[0026] In one embodiment, the second member 80 further has a third surface 213 disposed between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212 in the D1 direction. The third surface 213 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the first surface 211 and the second surface 212, and functions as a transition area between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212. In other words, the second member 80 has a third surface 213 that connects the first surface 211 and the second surface 212 and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. In the transition from the state of FIG. 1(a) to the state of FIG. 1(b), a force (switching operation force, switching torque) T3 larger than T1 is required for the relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80. By using the above-mentioned high load-compatible biasing member 310, the switching operation force is set high, and as a result, it is possible to realize the omission of mechanisms and / or parts required in conventional lens barrels, such as conventional zoom lock mechanisms. In addition, the moving piece 320 and the third surface 203 can be in contact with each other on a surface. By making contact with the surface, the biasing force in the D2 direction can be efficiently transmitted to the second member 80. In addition, the force T3 required when the moving piece 320 moves from the first surface 211 to the second surface 212 can be efficiently generated and appropriately adjusted.

[0027] In the example of FIG. 2, the second member 80 has a first surface 211, a second surface 212, a third surface 213, a fourth surface 214, a fifth surface 215, a sixth surface 216, and a seventh surface 217, which are located at different positions in the D1 direction. The fourth surface 214, the first surface 211, the third surface 213, the second surface 212, the sixth surface 216, the fifth surface 215, and the seventh surface 217 are arranged in this order along the D1 direction. The first surface 211 and the second surface 212 are each substantially parallel to the D1 direction, and are located at different positions in the D2 direction. The third surface 213 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the D1 direction, and functions as a transition region between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212. The fourth surface 214 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the D1 direction. The inclination direction of the fourth surface 214 is different from the inclination direction of the third surface 213.

[0028] The moving piece 320 has a first surface 311, a second surface 312, and a third surface 313. The first surface 311 is arranged parallel to the D1 direction. The second surface 312 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the D1 direction. The third surface 313 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the D1 direction. The moving piece 320 has a protruding portion protruding from the main body in the D2 direction, and the first surface 311, the second surface 312, and the third surface 313 are formed on the protruding portion. The inclination direction of the second surface 312 is different from the inclination direction of the third surface 313. For example, the second surface (inclined surface) 312 of the moving piece 320 is arranged parallel to the third surface (inclined surface) 213 of the second member 80. Alternatively, the inclination of the third surface 213 of the second member 80 relative to the biasing direction of the biasing member 310 and the inclination of the second surface 312 of the moving piece 320 relative to the biasing direction of the biasing member 310 are approximately parallel. In other words, the third surface 213 and the second surface 312 are approximately parallel. Also, the third surface (inclined surface) 313 of the moving piece 320 is arranged parallel to the fourth surface (inclined surface) 214 and the sixth surface (inclined surface) 216 of the second member 80. In other words, the fourth surface 214 and the sixth surface 216 are each approximately parallel to the third surface 313. Since the two surfaces that abut against each other are arranged parallel to each other, substantial surface contact between the second member 80 and the moving piece 320 is realized. For example, in surface contact, while maintaining a state in which the two surfaces are arranged parallel to each other, the two surfaces approach each other due to relative movement between the two surfaces, and the two surfaces come into contact with each other. The surface contact contributes to improving the user's operational feel regarding the manual operation of the relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80. In other examples, the two surfaces in surface contact can have a shape other than a flat surface. Additionally, a predetermined surface treatment can be applied to at least a portion of the surfaces to be abutted, for the purpose of improving smoothness, improving slipperiness, preventing wear, and / or reducing noise.

[0029] The fifth surface 215 of the second member 80 has an inclined surface that is slightly inclined with respect to the D1 direction (incline angle θ). When the moving piece 320 moves relatively to the second member 80 from state (c) to state (d) in a state in which the moving piece 320 abuts against the fifth surface 215 of the second member 80, the position of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction gradually changes, and accordingly, the biasing force received from the biasing member 310 (FIG. 1) gradually increases.

[0030] The sixth surface 216 and the seventh surface of the second member 80 each have an inclined surface inclined with respect to the D1 direction. In other words, the sixth surface 216 has an inclined surface inclined with respect to the second surface 212 and the fifth surface 215, and functions as a transition region between the second surface 212 and the fifth surface 215. The second member 80 has a sixth surface 216 that connects the second surface 212 and the fifth surface 215 and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. The direction of the inclination of the sixth surface 216 is different from the direction of the inclination of the seventh surface. For example, the sixth surface (inclined surface) 216 is arranged parallel to the fourth surface (inclined surface) 214. The seventh surface (inclined surface) 217 ​​is arranged parallel to the third surface (inclined surface) 213. The inclination of the sixth surface 216 has the same gradient as the gradient of the gradient of the seventh surface. Alternatively, the inclination of the sixth surface 216 has a gradient different from the gradient of the gradient of the seventh surface.

[0031] In the example of FIG. 3(a), the moving piece 320 is positioned in a non-contact state with the second member 80. A gap is provided between the first surface 211 of the second member 80 and the first surface 311 of the moving piece 320 in the D2 direction. In this case, the first surface 211 of the second member 80 and the first surface 311 of the moving piece 320 do not contact each other, so that it is possible to avoid the generation of an unnecessary force in the D2 direction. In addition, if the third surface 213 of the second member 80 and the second surface 312 of the moving piece 320 are brought into contact with each other, a force in the D2 direction can be generated even if the first surface 211 and the first surface 311 do not contact each other. This state is realized by bringing the moving piece 320 into contact with the first member 70, or a third member different from the first member 70 and the second member 80. In a predetermined state, the biasing force of the biasing member 310 (FIG. 1) is prevented from acting on the second member 80.

[0032] 3(b), the third surface 213, which is a transition region between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212 of the second member 80, is disposed perpendicular to the direction D1. In this case, the force T3 required for the moving piece 320 to move from the first surface 211 to the second surface 212 can be set to be large.

[0033] 3(c), the third surface 213, which is a transition region between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212 of the second member 80, has a convex contour. By changing the convex shape of the third surface 213, it is possible to adjust the force T3 required when the moving piece 320 moves from the first surface 211 to the second surface 212.

[0034] 3(d), the third surface 213, which is a transition area between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212 of the second member 80, has a concave contour. By changing the concave shape of the third surface 213, it is possible to adjust the force T3 required when the moving piece 320 moves from the first surface 211 to the second surface 212.

[0035] In the example of FIG. 3(e), the second surface 212 of the second member 80 has a non-smooth surface. For example, the second surface 212 has a roughened surface. Alternatively, the second surface 212 is provided with a plurality of protrusions, holes, grooves, and / or depressions. Such a form contributes to the user recognizing a change in the operation feeling regarding the manual operation of the relative movement between the first member 70 and the second member 80. In another example, another surface different from the second surface 212 may have a non-smooth surface.

[0036] In the example of FIG. 4(a), the protrusion (contact portion) 340 of the moving piece 320 has an overall convex contour.

[0037] In the example of FIG. 4(b), the protrusion (contact portion) 340 of the moving piece 320 has a partially convex contour.

[0038] Next, an example in which the lens barrel 1 is applied to an interchangeable lens that is detachable from a camera body will be described.

[0039] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the telephoto end (telephoto end) imaging state and the retracted state (retracted state, standby state) of the lens barrel 1. In Fig. 5, the upper half of the page shows the lens barrel 1 in the retracted state, and the lower half of the page shows the lens barrel 1 in the telephoto end imaging state. The lens barrel 1 is detachable from the camera body. In another example, the lens barrel 1 may be fixed to the camera body and cannot be detached from the camera. In one example of a camera (imaging device) 500 shown in Fig. 13, a camera body (main body section) 510 includes an imaging element 520 and a display section 530, etc.

[0040] 5, the lens barrel 1 includes a variable power optical system including a plurality of lens groups. The lens barrel 1 includes a zoom lens including a first lens group L1, a second lens group L2, a third lens group L3, a fourth lens group L4, and a fifth lens group L5. The first lens group L1, the second lens group L2, the third lens group L3, the fourth lens group L4, and the fifth lens group L5 are arranged in this order from the subject side to the image plane side.

[0041] The first group lens L1, the second group lens L2, the third group lens L3, the fourth group lens L4, and the fifth group lens L5 move in the optical axis direction during zooming. The fourth group lens L4 includes a focus lens and moves in the optical axis direction during focusing.

[0042] The lens barrel 1 also includes a first movable barrel 10, a second movable barrel 20, a linear barrel 30, a third movable barrel 35, a fourth movable barrel 40, a cam barrel (third frame) 50, a fixed barrel 60, a fixed frame (first member, first frame) 70, a zoom ring (second member, rotating frame, second frame) 80, and a mount 90.

[0043] The first movable barrel 10 is movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis (OA). The second movable barrel 20 is movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis. The rectilinear barrel 30 is movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis. The third movable barrel 35 is movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis. The fourth movable barrel 40 is movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis. The cam barrel 50 is rotatable relative to the fixed frame 70 around the optical axis, and is also movable relative to the fixed frame 70 along the optical axis.

[0044] The first group lens L1 is held by a first lens frame 11. The first lens frame 11 is held by a first movable cylinder 10.

[0045] The second group lens L2 is held by a second lens frame 21. The second lens frame 21 is held by a second moving cylinder 20.

[0046] The third group lens L3 is held by a third lens frame 31. The fifth group lens L5 is held by a fifth lens frame 51. The third lens frame 31 and the fifth lens frame 51 are held by a third movable cylinder 35. In another example, the third group lens L3 and the fifth group lens L5 can be held by separate movable cylinders and configured to be independently movable.

[0047] The fourth group lens L4 is held by a fourth lens frame 41. The fourth lens frame 41 is held by a fourth movable cylinder 40.

[0048] The fixed barrel 60 is held by a fixed frame 70. The fixed frame 70 is held by a mount 90. The mount 90 is held by the camera body. The lens barrel 1 is connected to the camera body via the mount 90.

[0049] The zoom ring 80 is rotatable around the optical axis within a predetermined range relative to the fixed frame 70. The zoom ring 80 can be rotated by a user (photographer).

[0050] The cam barrel 50 has a zoom interlocking pin (not shown) that engages with a linear groove (not shown) provided in the zoom ring 80. The cam barrel 50 is disposed on the inner peripheral side with respect to the fixed frame 70 and / or the zoom ring 80. The cam barrel 50 also has a cam groove 52 that engages with a cam follower 62 provided in the fixed barrel 60. As the zoom ring 80 rotates, the cam barrel 50 rotates around the optical axis and moves along the optical axis.

[0051] The linear motion barrel 30 has a circumferential groove 32 that engages with a connecting pin 53 provided on the cam barrel 50. The linear motion barrel 30 also has a key 33 that engages with a linear groove 63 provided on the fixed barrel 60. The linear motion barrel 30 moves along the optical axis without rotating as the cam barrel 50 moves in the optical axis direction.

[0052] The second moving barrel 20 has a cam follower 22 that engages with a cam groove 54 provided in the cam barrel 50. The second moving barrel 20 also has a key (not shown) that engages with a linear groove (not shown) provided in the fixed barrel 60. As the cam barrel 50 rotates, the second moving barrel 20 moves along the optical axis without rotating.

[0053] The first moving barrel 10 has a cam follower (not shown) that engages with a cam groove (not shown) provided in the cam barrel 50. The first moving barrel 10 also has a connecting pin (not shown) that engages with a linear groove (not shown) provided in the linear barrel 30. As the cam barrel 50 rotates, the first moving barrel 10 moves along the optical axis without rotating.

[0054] The third moving barrel 35 passes through the fixed barrel 60 and has a cam follower (not shown) that engages with a cam groove 56 provided in the cam barrel 50. The third moving barrel 35 also has a key (not shown) that engages with a linear groove (not shown) provided in the second moving barrel 20. As the cam barrel 50 rotates, the third moving barrel 35 moves along the optical axis without rotating.

[0055] The fourth moving barrel 40 passes through the third moving barrel 35 and has a cam follower (not shown) that engages with a cam groove 57 provided in the cam barrel 50. The fourth moving barrel 40 also has a key (not shown) that engages with a linear groove (not shown) provided in the third moving barrel 35. As the cam barrel 50 rotates, the fourth moving barrel 40 moves along the optical axis without rotating.

[0056] The fourth movable cylinder 40 is provided with an actuator (focus motor) 45 and a position detection unit (position sensor) (not shown). The fourth lens group L4 and the fourth lens frame 41 can be moved along the optical axis by the actuator 45, in addition to being moved in accordance with the rotation of the zoom ring 80. As the actuator 45, for example, a stepping motor is applied. In other examples, the actuator 45 can be an ultrasonic motor, a voice coil motor, a piezoelectric actuator, a linear actuator, or the like. As the position detection unit, for example, a photointerrupter can be mentioned.

[0057] Zooming changes the focal length of the lens barrel 1. Focusing changes the shooting distance (or focus position) of the lens barrel 1. The shooting distance is the distance from the camera to the subject. More specifically, it is the distance from the reference position of the camera to the subject on which the focus is set. The focus position is the position of the subject on which the focus is set.

[0058] The lens barrel 1 is of a so-called inner focus type, in which a fourth lens group L4 including a focus lens is disposed between a third lens group L3 and a fifth lens group L5 which is a zoom lens.

[0059] The lens barrel 1 can switch the shooting mode between a normal shooting state (non-retracted state) including a telephoto side state (telephoto state) and a wide-angle side state (wide state) and a non-shooting state (retracted state) including a retracted state. These states are switched by the user rotating the zoom ring 80. In the normal shooting state, the focal length changes by rotating the zoom ring 80 between the telephoto end and the wide-angle end.

[0060] The lens barrel 1 can include the biasing mechanism 300 as described above for the purpose of appropriately controlling the operating torque of the zoom ring 80, etc. In the explanation using Figures 1 and 2, an example will be described in which a fixed frame 70 is used as the first member 70, and a zoom ring 80 is used as the second member 80. It is to be noted that the zoom ring 80 may be used as the first member 70, and the fixed frame 70 may be used as the second member 80.

[0061] In Fig. 2, (a) shows the retracted state, (b) shows the switching state, (c) shows the wide-angle end state in the shooting mode, and (d) shows the telephoto end state in the shooting mode. In the switching state, the shooting mode is switched between the normal shooting state (shooting mode, in use state) and the non-shooting state (retracted state, standby state). The D1 direction is the circumferential direction around the optical axis, and the D2 direction is the direction along the optical axis (optical axis direction).

[0062] In the collapsed state of FIG. 2(a), the moving piece 320 is in contact with the first surface 211 and / or the third surface 213 of the zoom ring 80. As shown in FIG. 6, a recess 390 surrounded by the first surface 211, the second surface 212, and the third surface 213 is formed at the shaft end (shaft end surface) of the zoom ring 80, and the tip of the moving piece 320 is stored in the recess 390. In this state, the biasing force (load) of the biasing member 310 acts on the moving piece 320 in the optical axis direction. The moving piece 320 is held by the biasing member 310 so as to be movable in the direction in which the lens barrel 1 retracts (optical axis direction). The biasing member 310 is a compression coil spring. The biasing member 310 is arranged in the biasing mechanism 300 under a high load condition.

[0063] In order for the moving piece 320 to ride up the step of the recess 390 of the zoom ring 80, a strong force (first switching operation force, first switching torque) is required to rotate the zoom ring 80 in the circumferential direction. In this lens barrel 1, a high switching torque is set using a high biasing force (high load) in the optical axis direction, and the omission of the conventional zoom lock mechanism is realized. That is, even if a camera equipped with a relatively large lens barrel 1 is placed so that the front lens faces downward (for example, when the camera body is hung from the neck or shoulder), the movement of the moving piece 320 is restricted by the third surface 213 or the fourth surface 214. As a result, the lens in the lens barrel 1 is prevented from protruding due to its own weight. The omission of the conventional zoom lock mechanism is advantageous for making the lens barrel 1 compact and improving the design. Note that if a high load is applied in the radial direction of the lens barrel 1, there is a concern that the lens barrel 1 will be distorted. Applying a load in the optical axis direction is also advantageous in terms of suppressing distortion of the lens barrel 1.

[0064] In FIG. 2(a), when the user turns the zoom ring 80 with strong force, the second surface 312 of the moving piece 320 moves relatively along the wall surface (third surface 213) of the recess 390 in the zoom ring 80, and the moving piece 320 rides up onto the second surface 212 of the zoom ring 80 (FIG. 2(b)).

[0065] 2(b), when the user rotates the zoom ring 80, a specific lens is extended, and the lens barrel 1 enters a switching region from a non-shooting state (retracted state, standby state) to a normal shooting state (shooting mode, in use state). At this time, the moving piece 320 slides on the second surface 212 of the zoom ring 80. The force (torque) for rotating the zoom ring 80 in the circumferential direction is smaller than the first switching torque described above.

[0066] In the wide-angle end state of FIG. 2(c), the moving piece 320 is in contact with the fifth surface 215 and / or the sixth surface 216 of the zoom ring 80. A recess surrounded by the fifth surface 215, the sixth surface 216, and the seventh surface 217 is formed at the shaft end (shaft end surface) of the zoom ring 80, and the tip of the moving piece 320 is stored in the recess. In this state, the biasing force of the biasing member 310 acts on the moving piece 320 in the optical axis direction, and the zoom ring 80 is pushed in the optical axis direction by the moving piece 320. As described above, the zoom ring 80 is engaged with the cam barrel 50 (see FIG. 5). The biasing member 310 can bias the cam barrel 50 in the direction of contraction (optical axis direction) via at least the moving piece 320 and the zoom ring 80. The force in the optical axis direction received by the zoom ring 80 is transmitted to the cam barrel 50. In other words, the biasing member 310 biases the cam barrel 50 in the optical axis direction via the moving piece 320 and the zoom ring 80. Furthermore, the force in the optical axis direction can be transmitted to another frame or barrel via the cam barrel 50. As a result, positional deviation (occurrence of rattle) of the members in the optical axis direction caused by gaps between the members is prevented. This is advantageous for improving the optical performance of the lens barrel 1. In addition, since the biasing force of the biasing member 310 changes when changing from the switching state of FIG. 2(b) to the wide end state of FIG. 2(c), the user knows that the state has been switched to the normal shooting state. The zoom ring 80 has a first surface 211 having a first distance from the fixed frame 70 in the direction in which the biasing member 310 biases, a second surface 212 having a second distance, a fifth surface 215 having a third distance, a third surface 213 disposed between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212, and a sixth surface 216 disposed between the second surface 212 and the fifth surface 215. The moving piece 320 can be in contact with at least one of the second surface 212, the third surface 213, and the sixth surface 216. The moving piece 320 has the first surface 311 capable of contacting at least one of the first surface 211, the second surface 212, and the fifth surface 215, the second surface 312 capable of contacting the third surface 213, and the third surface 313 capable of contacting the sixth surface 216. In other words, the moving piece 320 can have a first surface 311 capable of surface contact with at least one of the first surface 211, the second surface 212, and the fifth surface 215, a second surface 312 capable of surface contact with the third surface 213, and a third surface 313 capable of surface contact with the sixth surface 216.

[0067] In FIG. 2(c), when the user turns the zoom ring 80, a predetermined lens is further extended, and a zoom operation is performed. During the zoom operation, the moving piece 320 is kept pressed against the zoom ring 80. During the user's zoom operation, the zoom ring 80 is prevented from shifting in the optical axis direction. This is advantageous for improving the user's operational feel. In addition, the force in the optical axis direction received by the zoom ring 80 can be transmitted to another frame or barrel via the cam barrel 50. As a result, even during the zoom operation, the positional shift (occurrence of rattling) of the members in the optical axis direction caused by the gap between the members is prevented. This is advantageous for improving the optical performance of the lens barrel 1.

[0068] 2(c), the fifth surface 215 of the zoom ring 80 is slightly inclined with respect to the D1 direction (a surface perpendicular to the optical axis direction). Therefore, during zoom operation, surface contact between the moving piece 320 and the fifth surface of the zoom ring 80 is avoided, and a state close to line contact is achieved. The moving piece 320 can slide relatively smoothly relative to the zoom ring 80. This is advantageous for improving the user's operability and the optical performance of the lens barrel 1.

[0069] When zooming from the wide-angle end state of FIG. 2(c) to the telephoto end state of FIG. 2(d), the biasing force (load) received by the moving piece 320 from the biasing member 310 gradually increases. Such a load change can be set according to the movement of the lens during zooming. For example, the height profile of the fifth surface 215 can be set according to the trajectory of the cam groove of a predetermined barrel. In one example, the height profile of the fifth surface 215 can be set so that the operating torque of the zoom ring 80 recognized by the user gradually increases from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end. In another example, the height profile of the fifth surface 215 can be set so that the operating torque of the zoom ring 80 recognized by the user is constant between the wide-angle end and the telephoto end.

[0070] In the operation of returning the zoom ring 80 from the telephoto end state of FIG. 2(d) to the retracted state of FIG. 2(a), the user rotates the zoom ring 80 in the opposite direction. In switching from the normal shooting state to the non-shooting state, in order for the moving piece 320 to climb up the step of the recess 395 of the zoom ring 80, a strong force (second switching operation force, second switching torque) is required to rotate the zoom ring 80 in the circumferential direction. Here, the inclined surface of the sixth surface 216 of the zoom ring 80 can have a gradient different from that of the third surface 213. In other words, the sixth surface 216 is connected to the second surface 212 on the opposite side to the third surface 213, and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. Alternatively, the third surface 213 is connected to the second surface 212 on the opposite side to the sixth surface 216, and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction. The inclination of the sixth surface 216 with respect to the optical axis direction is different from the inclination of the third surface 213 with respect to the optical axis direction. Alternatively, the smaller angle of the angle formed by the biasing direction of the biasing member 310 and the third surface 213 is different from the smaller angle of the angle formed by the biasing direction of the biasing member 310 and the sixth surface 216. In one example, the third surface 213 has a higher gradient than the gradient of the sixth surface 216. In other words, the smaller angle of the angle formed by the optical axis direction and the third surface 213 is smaller than the smaller angle of the angle formed by the optical axis direction and the sixth surface 216. In this case, the first switching torque is set to be larger than the second switching torque. This allows the non-photographing state (retracted state, standby state) to be maintained more strongly. It is possible to reliably lock against various camera movements when not photographing. For example, when a user is carrying the camera around hanging from his neck in the non-photographing state (retracted state, standby state), it is possible to prevent the lens barrel from unintentionally extending and switching to the normal photographing state. In another example, the sixth surface 216 can have a higher gradient than the gradient of the third surface 213. In other words, the smaller of the angles between the optical axis direction and the sixth surface 216 is smaller than the smaller of the angles between the optical axis direction and the third surface 213. This can prevent the user from unintentionally switching to a non-shooting state while shooting at a focal length near the wide end. The gradient of the sixth surface 216 and the gradient of the third surface 213 may be set to be approximately the same.

[0071] In another example, the fifth surface 215 of the zoom ring 80 can be parallel to the D1 direction (a surface perpendicular to the optical axis direction). In this case, the distance (depth of the recess 395) DP2 (not shown) between the second surface 212 and the fifth surface 215 can have a value different from the distance (depth of the recess 390) DP1 (not shown) between the second surface 212 and the first surface 211. In one example, DP1 is larger than DP2. This allows the non-photographing state (retracted state, standby state) to be maintained more strongly. Reliable locking against various camera movements during non-photographing is possible. In addition, since DP2 is smaller than DP1, in the normal photographing state, the biasing force in the D2 direction can be transmitted to the zoom ring 80. This allows the torque force required for zooming from the wide end to the telephoto end to be generated. In addition, as described above, it can also function as a backlash remover in the D2 direction. In another example, DP1 can be the same as or smaller than DP2.

[0072] In the lens barrel 1, in the telephoto end state, further extension is mechanically restricted by a restricting plate 980 shown in FIG.

[0073] 7 and 8, three biasing mechanisms 300 are arranged in the lens barrel 1. The three biasing mechanisms 300 may be arranged spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction at equal or non-equal intervals. The slim size of the biasing member 310 is advantageous for arranging multiple biasing mechanisms 300. One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten or more biasing mechanisms 300 may be arranged in one lens barrel 1.

[0074] The multiple biasing members 310 apply a high load to the zoom ring 80 in the optical axis direction at multiple positions in the circumferential direction. As a result, it becomes possible to set higher load conditions throughout the lens barrel 1. Alternatively, the load is distributed to multiple positions in the circumferential direction, which contributes to improved durability. Also, uneven load distribution in the circumferential direction is avoided, and positional deviation (occurrence of rattling) of components in the optical axis direction caused by gaps between components is more reliably prevented. This is advantageous for improving the optical performance of the lens barrel 1.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, a hole (slot, groove) 110 for the biasing member 310 and the moving piece 320 is provided in the peripheral wall of the fixed frame 70. The hole 110 has slide walls 121, 122 along the optical axis direction. Furthermore, at least a part of the bottom of the hole 110 functions as the slide wall 123. The movement of the moving piece 320 in a direction intersecting the moving direction is restricted by a restricting portion provided on the slide walls 121, 122, 123. For example, the slide walls 121, 122, 123 have a wall surface provided parallel to the moving axis of the moving piece 320 as a restricting portion. The moving piece 320 moves along the wall surfaces of the slide walls 121, 122, 123. The slide walls 121, 122, 123 realize smooth movement of the moving piece 320.

[0076] Moving piece 320 has sliding surfaces 321, 322, 323 arranged facing the wall surfaces of sliding walls 121, 122, 123, respectively. Sliding surfaces 321, 322, 323 are provided parallel to the movement axis of moving piece 320. Sliding surfaces 321, 322, 323 reliably restrict movement of moving piece 320 in a direction intersecting the movement direction throughout the entire movement range. In biasing mechanism 300, although it has a simple configuration, the occurrence of kinking during movement of moving piece 320 is avoided, and smoother movement of moving piece 320 is achieved.

[0077] The attitude of the moving piece 320 can be restricted and / or controlled substantially independently of the biasing member 310. That is, the attitude of the moving piece 320 can be restricted and / or controlled with high precision. As a result, surface contact between the fixed frame 70 and the zoom ring 80 is reliably achieved. Alternatively, highly precise torque control in zoom operation is reliably achieved.

[0078] 8, a profile having two recesses 390, 395 is set on the shaft end face of the zoom ring 80 in each of three regions corresponding to the three biasing mechanisms 300. Providing such a profile on the shaft end face contributes to improving design freedom, workability, and / or processing accuracy.

[0079] 9, moving piece 320 has slide surface 321 having a smooth outer surface, slide surface 322 having a smooth outer surface, and slide surface 323 having a smooth outer surface. Slide surface 321 and slide surface 322 each extend in the movement axis direction and are parallel to each other. Slide surface 323 extends in the movement axis direction and is perpendicular to slide surfaces 321 and 322. The posture of moving piece 320 having this configuration can be regulated and / or controlled with high precision via slide surfaces 321, 322, and 323.

[0080] In one example, the slide surface 323 has a plurality of slide surfaces (323) spaced apart from each other in a direction intersecting the movement axis. This is advantageous for controlling the attitude of the moving piece 320 with high precision. A protrusion (contact portion) 340 may be disposed between the plurality of slide surfaces (323) in a direction intersecting the movement axis. This is also advantageous for controlling the attitude of the moving piece 320 with high precision.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 10, the moving piece 320 has a main body 325, a first protruding portion (contact portion) 340 provided to protrude forward from the main body 325 along the moving axis, and a second protruding portion (support portion) 342 provided to protrude further forward from the first protruding portion 340. The second protruding portion 342 is provided on the bottom of the main body 325, and has, for example, a plate shape. At least a portion of the second protruding portion 342 faces a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the zoom ring 80. As a result, the second protruding portion 342 can support the zoom ring 80 in the radial direction. This contributes to improving the holding strength of the zoom ring 80 to the fixed frame 70.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 10, the moving piece 320 has a post 345 to which the biasing member 310 is attached. The biasing member 310 is a compression coil spring. The post 345 is inserted from the coil end to the coil center of the biasing member 310 along the axial direction. When the distance (maximum distance) from one end to the other end along the axial direction of the biasing member 310 arranged in the region BA1 is LA2 and the axial length of the post 345 is LA7, LA7 can be about 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, or 70% of LA2. The above numerical values ​​are representative examples, and other numerical values ​​can be applied in other examples. By appropriately setting the length of the post 345, the biasing member 310 is prevented from losing its posture.

[0083] The post 345 has at least a thick portion 346 provided at the tip and a thin portion 347 provided between the base end and the tip. The outer diameter of the thick portion 346 is set to a value larger than the outer diameter of the thin portion 347. The outer diameter of the thick portion 346 is set to a value smaller than the inner diameter of the biasing member 310. The thick portion 346 has a thick shape only in a part in the circumferential direction. That is, the thick portion 346 has a non-circular cross-sectional shape. In the thick portion 346 of the post 345, the center of gravity of the cross-sectional area is arranged to be radially shifted from the central axis of the biasing member 310. The setting of the thick portion 346 prevents the biasing member 310 from losing its posture.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 11, the fixed frame 70 has a post 350 to which the urging member 310 is attached, and a wall 355 to which the post 350 is attached. The post 350 is inserted into one end of the urging member 310. The wall 355 has a first surface 356, a second surface 357, and a third surface 358. In the axial direction of the post 350, the first surface 356 and the second surface 357 are at different height levels. The third surface 358 is disposed between the first surface 356 and the second surface 357, and connects the first surface 356 and the second surface 357. The post 350 is disposed so as to cover a part of the first surface 356, a part of the second surface 357, and a part of the third surface 358. A step shape is set in the wall 355 at the base end of the post 350. The tip of the wire of the urging member (coil spring) 310 is disposed on any one of the first surface 356, the second surface 357, and the third surface 358. In one example, the tip of the wire of the urging member 310 is disposed on the first surface 356, which has the lowest height level. In this way, by providing a height difference on the wall that the end of the urging member 310 contacts, the collapse of the posture due to the winding shape of the urging member 310 is prevented. When the tip of the wire of the urging member 310 is disposed on the second surface 357, which has the highest height level, it is possible to suppress the urging member 310 from being bent inward and being incorporated. In other words, it is possible to control the posture. In another example, as shown in FIG. 12, the tip of the wire of the urging member 310 is disposed on the second surface 357, which has the highest height level. Alternatively, the urging member 310 is arranged so that the tip portion of the wire of the urging member 310 intersects with the third surface 358 (or engages with the step of the wall 355). If it is possible to add a process to flatten the spring end surface, it is not necessary to provide the step shape.

[0085] Although an example has been described in which the biasing member 310 is provided on the fixed frame 70 and biases the moving piece 320 against the zoom ring 80, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the biasing member 310 may be provided on the zoom ring 80 and biases the moving piece 320 against the fixed frame 70. In this case, the first surface 211 to the seventh surface 217 are provided on the fixed frame 70.

[0086] Further, although the biasing member 310 biases in the optical axis direction in the example described above, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the biasing member 310 may bias in the radial direction of a circle centered on the optical axis.

[0087] The biasing mechanism 300 is not limited to being related to control between the fixed frame 70 and the zoom ring 80. The biasing mechanism 300 can be applied to being related to control between various two members in the lens barrel 1.

[0088] In one embodiment, the lens barrel (1) includes a first frame (70), a second frame (80) rotatable relative to the first frame, a biasing member (310) held by one of the first frame and the second frame, and a movable member (320) arranged to be movable in the optical axis direction and transmitting the biasing force of the biasing member to the other of the first frame and the second frame.

[0089] For example, in the above embodiment, the other has a first surface (215, 211) and a second surface (212), and the biasing force when the movable member (320) is in contact with the first surface (215, 211) is smaller than the biasing force when the movable member (320) is in contact with the second surface (212).

[0090] For example, in the above embodiment, the other has a third surface (216, 213) that connects the first surface (215, 211) and the second surface (212) and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0091] For example, in the above embodiment, the other has a fourth surface (213, 216) that is connected to the second surface (212) on the side opposite to the third surface (216, 213) and is inclined with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0092] For example, in the above embodiment, the inclination of the fourth surface (213, 216) with respect to the optical axis direction is different from the inclination of the third surface (216, 213) with respect to the optical axis direction.

[0093] For example, in the above embodiment, the smaller of the angles formed between the optical axis direction and the fourth surface (213, 216) is smaller than the smaller of the angles formed between the optical axis direction and the third surface (216, 213).

[0094] For example, in the above embodiment, the moving member (320) has fifth surfaces (312, 313) that can come into surface contact with the fourth surfaces (213, 216).

[0095] For example, in the above embodiment, the fourth surface (213, 216) and the fifth surface (312, 313) are substantially parallel to each other.

[0096] For example, in the above embodiment, the moving member (320) has a sixth surface (313, 312) capable of surface contact with the third surface (216, 213), and the third surface (216, 213) and the sixth surface (313, 312) are substantially parallel to each other.

[0097] For example, in the above embodiment, the lens barrel (1) further includes a third frame (50) arranged on the inner circumferential side of the first frame (70) and the second frame (80), the biasing member (310) biases the third frame (50) in the optical axis direction via the moving member (320) and the other member, and the biasing member (310) and the moving member (320) are arranged in multiple numbers.

[0098] In another embodiment, a lens barrel (1) switchable between a shooting state and a retracted state includes a first frame (70), a second frame (80) rotatable relative to the first frame, a biasing portion (310) held by one of the first frame and the second frame and having a biasing force in a retracting direction, and a contact portion (320, 340) biased by the biasing portion and capable of contacting the other of the first frame and the second frame.

[0099] For example, in the above embodiment, the contact portions (320, 340) are biased by the biasing portion (310) so as to be movable in the direction in which they contract.

[0100] For example, in the above embodiment, the lens barrel (1) further includes a third frame (50) disposed on the inner circumferential side of the first frame (70) and the second frame (80), and the biasing portion (310) is capable of biasing the third frame in a direction of contracting via at least the contact portions (320, 340) and the other portion.

[0101] In another embodiment, the lens barrel (1) comprises a fixed frame (70), a rotating frame (80) arranged rotatably around the optical axis, a biasing member (310) held on one of the fixed frame and the rotating frame, and a movable member (320) biased by a biasing section and arranged movably in the optical axis direction, the other of the fixed frame and the rotating frame having a first surface (215, 211) and a second surface (212), and the amount of deflection or overall length of the biasing member changes between a state in which the movable member is in contact with the first surface and a state in which the movable member is in contact with the second surface.

[0102] In another embodiment, a lens barrel (1) includes a first member (70), a second member (80) having a relationship of relative movement between the first member and the second member at least in a first direction, a biasing member (310) held by one of the first member and the second member, and a movable member (320) arranged to be movable at least along the other of the first member and the second member and transmitting the biasing force of the biasing member to the other.

[0103] In another embodiment, a lens barrel (1) includes a first frame (70), a second frame (80) rotatable relative to the first frame, a biasing portion (310) held by one of the first frame and the second frame, and contact portions (320, 340) that can contact the other of the first frame and the second frame on a surface by the biasing portion.

[0104] In another embodiment, an imaging device (500) includes any of the lens barrels (1) described above, and a main body (510) including an imaging element (520).

[0105] Although the present invention has been described above using the embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. It is clear from the claims that such modifications or improvements can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and any combination of these configurations may be used. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 1: lens barrel, L1: first group lens, L2: second group lens, L3: third group lens, L4: fourth group lens, L5: fifth group lens, 10: first movable barrel, 11: first lens frame, 20: second movable barrel, 21: second lens frame, 22: cam follower, 30: linear barrel, 31: third lens frame, 32: circumferential groove, 33: key, 35: third movable barrel, 45: actuator (focus motor), 40: fourth movable barrel, 41: fourth lens frame, 50: cam barrel (third frame), 52: cam groove, 53: connecting pin, 54: cam groove, 60: fixed barrel, 62: cam follower, 63: linear groove, 70: fixed frame (first member, first frame), 80: zoom ring (second member, rotating frame, second frame), 90: mount, 300: biasing mechanism.

Claims

[Claim 1] A lens barrel that can be switched between a retracted state and a shooting state, a first frame having a first surface and a second surface inclined in the optical axis direction, and a third surface disposed between the first surface and the second surface and perpendicular to the optical axis; A second frame that is rotatable relative to the first frame; A biasing member held by the second frame; a moving member that is arranged to be movable in the optical axis direction and comes into contact with the first frame by the biasing force of the biasing member, In the collapsed state, the movable member can come into contact with the first surface, and during a transition state in which the movable member is transitioning from the collapsed state to the photographing state, the movable member comes into contact with and slides against the third surface; In the photographing state, the moving member abuts against the first frame, and the biasing member generates a biasing force in the optical axis direction. Lens barrel.

Images