Rotary operating device and electronic device

Abstract

To provide a more compact rotation operating device that can easily change the number of phases (resolution) and enables a rotary operating member to rotate around a whole circumference.SOLUTION: A rotation operating device includes: a rotary operating member 20 capable of rotating about a rotation axis; a reflecting plate 70 capable of rotating integrally with the rotary operating member; and a detection part 95 that detects reflected light from the reflecting plate 70. The reflecting plate 70 has a plurality of patterns as detection target portions. A first pattern 70a1 is an annular portion that switches between a bright portion and a dark portion every 180 degrees around a rotation axis. A second pattern 70a2 is an annular portion that switches a bright portion and a dark portion every 90 degrees around the rotation axis. An angle at which the first pattern 70a1 switches between the bright portion and the dark portion is equal to an angle at which the second pattern 70a2 switches between the bright portion and the dark portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a rotary operation device such as a dial device, and an electronic device equipped with the rotary operation device. [Background technology]

[0002] Dial devices installed in electronic devices such as digital cameras, video cameras, and personal digital assistants are used to adjust operating modes and various settings. For example, a dial device may have a conductive pattern fixed to the electronic device body to detect rotational phase, and a leaf-spring-like phase contact that slides relative to the conductive pattern may be fixed to a rotatable dial. The dial device may also have multiple grooves aligned in the rotational direction and spheres that engage with each groove, and the spheres engage and disengage with the grooves as the dial is rotated, producing a clicking sensation when the dial is turned.

[0003] In a configuration that utilizes the sliding of a phase contact and a conductive pattern, the generation of wear debris can cause unintended short circuits between signals, potentially resulting in false detection. Patent Document 1 discloses a rotary switch that detects the phase of a rotary operating member without contact using a photointerrupter and a slit. The rotary switch has a detection target formed integrally with the operating shaft, and is configured to detect the presence or absence of slits formed in the rotational position detection target or state detection target using multiple photointerrupters. One of 2n possible states, which is the number of ON / OFF combinations of the detection outputs of the n photointerrupters, is identified. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-191824 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the rotation angle (resolution) of the dial device is set for the desired number of phases, and the shape of the conductive pattern differs for each number of phases. Therefore, when setting a different number of phases, it was necessary to change the shape of the conductive pattern each time.

[0006] Furthermore, in the prior art disclosed in Patent Document 1, the number of inner peripheral slits required corresponds to the desired state, which raises concerns about the device becoming larger. Furthermore, phase detection is performed using detection signals from the rotational position detection object and the state detection object, and the presence or absence of slits in the state detection object is detected. The position of the slits is fixed, which limits the combination of detection outputs from the photointerrupter associated with the state detection object. Therefore, the rotary operating member is configured to rotate back and forth, and cannot be rotated all the way around. An object of the present invention is to provide a smaller rotary operation device that allows easy change of the number of phases (resolution) and full rotation of the rotary operation member. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A rotary operation device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a rotary operation member rotatable about a rotation axis, a reflective member rotatable integrally with the rotary operation member, and a detection means for detecting light reflected by the reflective member, wherein the reflective member is provided with a plurality of detectable portions, each having a light portion and a dark portion. A first detectable portion of the plurality of detectable portions is an annular portion whose light portion and dark portion alternate every 180 degrees around the rotation axis. A second detectable portion of the plurality of detectable portions is an annular portion whose light portion and dark portion alternate every 90 degrees around the rotation axis. The angle at which the first detectable portion switches between the light portion and the dark portion is the same as the angle at which the second detectable portion switches between the light portion and the dark portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a smaller rotary operation device that allows easy change of the number of phases (resolution) and full rotation of the rotary operation member. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the main body of the camera according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration of a rotary operation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a rotary operation device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 5A and 5B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of a reflector and a detector in the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating detected portions of a reflector and detection signals for each phase number. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a rotation operation member with six phases. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing another example of a holding mechanism that generates a clicking sensation. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing yet another example of a holding mechanism that generates a clicking sensation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiment, an imaging device will be described as an example of an electronic device equipped with a rotary operation device. The configuration of the rotary operation module according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the main body of a digital camera (hereinafter simply referred to as "camera") 1. For example, camera 1 is a digital single-lens reflex camera. The main body of camera 1 comprises a mode dial unit 2 and an exterior cover 3. In the following description, the side of the main body of camera 1 on which exterior cover 3 is provided is defined as the top side.

[0012] A mode dial unit 2 is provided on the top surface of the main body of camera 1. The mode dial unit 2 is a rotary operation device used by the user to set various shooting conditions. For example, the user can select a desired shooting mode by rotating the mode dial unit 2 clockwise or counterclockwise. Shooting modes include shutter speed priority mode (Tv mode), aperture value priority mode (Av mode), and video mode.

[0013] The rotational operation of the mode dial unit 2 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2(A) is an exploded perspective view of the mode dial unit 2 when viewed obliquely from below. Figure 2(B) is an exploded perspective view of the mode dial unit 2 when viewed obliquely from above. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the mode dial unit 2.

[0014] The rotary operation member 20 of the mode dial unit 2 is a member that is rotated by the user and can be rotated 360 degrees. The mode dial unit 2 is equipped with a holding mechanism (hereinafter referred to as the "click mechanism") for generating an operating force (click force) that gives a clicking sensation in accordance with the rotation of the rotary operation member 20. The click mechanism has a sphere, an elastic member, and a groove. Click balls 30, 31 are arranged in groove 21 provided on the inside of the rotary operation member 20, and a click force can be generated by biasing the click balls 30, 31 in the direction of the rotation axis by compression springs 40, 41. The compression springs 40, 41 and click balls 30, 31 are assembled in holes in storage sections 51, 52 provided in the exterior member 50. The click mechanism will be described in detail later.

[0015] The rotation operation member 20 is rotatably supported relative to the exterior member 50 by its shaft 22 slidingly fitting into a hole 53 in the exterior member 50. The convex portion 23 provided on the shaft 22 has a rotational phase fixed relative to a hole 61 provided in a receiving plate 60 of the reflector 70, and is fastened with a screw 80. The reflector 70 is a reflective member having a bright portion with a reflectance equal to or greater than a threshold value and a dark portion with a reflectance less than the threshold value. The reflector 70 is positioned by the convex portions 62, 63, and 64 provided on the receiving plate 60 and the concave portions 71, 72, and 73 provided on the reflector 70, and is adhesively fixed with a double-sided adhesive tape (not shown) or the like. The fixing member 100 is fixed to the exterior member 50 with fastening members 110, 111, and 112.

[0016] With the above-described configuration, the rotation operation member 20, the receiving plate 60, and the reflecting plate 70 can rotate integrally, but their positions in the direction of the rotation axis are fixed. In this embodiment, the storage sections 51 and 52 are formed integrally with the exterior member 50, but this is not a limitation. The storage sections 51 and 52 may be formed separately and fixed to the exterior member 50. Furthermore, the configuration is not limited to one in which the fixing member 100 is directly fixed to the exterior member 50, but may be one in which the fixing member 100 is indirectly fixed to the exterior member 50 via another member. In this embodiment, the storage sections 51 and 52 are part of the exterior member 50, so the outer side of the exterior member 50 including the storage sections 51 and 52 is defined as the "exterior side," and the inner side of the exterior member 50 is defined as the "interior side."

[0017] Next, the click mechanism of the mode dial unit 2 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. The groove 21 of the rotary operation member 20 faces the click balls 30, 31 on the exterior side. The groove 21 has wavy projections and recesses formed at regular intervals. Specifically, the wavy projections and recesses are alternating valleys and peaks extending radially from the center of the axis. The rotary operation member 20 has a phase number represented as "n". There are n valleys and n peaks extending radially from the center of the axis. In other words, the phase to be rotated to transition to one mode is "360 / n" degrees.

[0018] The pair of click balls 30, 31 are positioned in phase with the wave-like projections and recesses of the groove 21 so that they are positioned at the same time at the valleys. Compression springs 40, 41 constantly bias the rotary operation member 20 against the wave-like projections and recesses. Therefore, the rotary operation member 20 stops at a position where the click balls 30, 31 engage with the valleys of the wave-like projections and recesses. When a user rotates the rotary operation member 20 by an angle corresponding to one position, the click balls 30, 31 ride over the peaks of the wave-like projections and recesses and engage with the adjacent valleys. At this time, a click force is generated in the rotary operation member 20, providing the user with a clicking sensation corresponding to one click. Therefore, the user can accurately rotate the rotary operation member 20 the desired number of clicks.

[0019] Next, the phase detection means will be described with reference to Figures 2 to 6. Hereinafter, the flexible printed circuit board (see Figures 2 and 3: 90) will be referred to simply as the "board." The board 90 is fixed to a fixing member 100 with an adhesive member 91 such as double-sided adhesive tape, and is electrically connected to the control circuit (not shown) of the camera 1.

[0020] Holes 101, 102, and 103 provided in the fixing member 100 correspond to screw holes 54, 55, and 56 provided in the exterior member 50, respectively, and fastening members 110, 111, and 112 are inserted through these holes to fasten the fixing member 100 to the exterior member 50.

[0021] With the above configuration, the position of the substrate 90 in the direction of the rotation axis is fixed. A predetermined number of detection units 95 are mounted on the surface of the substrate 90. The detection units 95 are electronic components such as photoreflectors. The photoreflector is a non-contact sensor that incorporates a light source and a light receiving sensor. Light emitted from the light source is reflected by the reflector 70, and the intensity of the reflected light is detected by the light receiving sensor, thereby measuring the reflectivity of the reflector 70. Note that the sensor is not limited to a photoreflector, and various sensors capable of measuring the reflection intensity of the reflector can be used.

[0022] The number of phases of the rotation operation member 20 and the arrangement of the multiple detection units 95 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4(A) is a diagram illustrating an example of a first shape pattern for the reflective member. A hole 74 is formed in the rotation center of the reflective plate 70, and a screw 80 is inserted into the hole 74 to fasten the reflective plate 70 to the receiving plate 60 and the rotation operation member 20. When viewed from the direction along the rotation axis of the rotation operation member 20, the reflective plate 70 has multiple patterns as detection units on its inner and outer peripheries. The first pattern 70a1 on the outer periphery is a detection unit formed in an annular shape in which light and dark areas alternate every 180 degrees around the rotation axis. The second pattern 70a2 on the inner periphery is a detection unit formed in an annular shape in which light and dark areas alternate every 90 degrees around the rotation axis. The light and dark areas of the first pattern 70a1 and the second pattern 70a2 both have a fan shape extending in an arc. The angle at which the light and dark areas change in the first pattern 70a1 matches the angle at which the light and dark areas change in the second pattern 70a2.

[0023] In the patterns 70a1 and 70a2 of the reflector 70, the bright portions are portions that reflect light from the detection unit 95 at a level higher than a predetermined reflectance, and the dark portions are portions that reflect light from the detection unit 95 at a level lower than the predetermined reflectance. For example, the bright portions are made of a metal plate such as aluminum, and the dark portions are configured by painting the metal plate black. Alternatively, the dark portions are configured by printing white on top of the sheet material.

[0024] By configuring the pattern of the reflector 70 as described above, it is possible to use a common reflector when the number of phases of the rotation operation member 20 is 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12. In the example of FIG. 4A, the first pattern 70a1 is located on the outer periphery, but this is not limited to this. FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a second shape pattern for the reflector. In this example, the first pattern 70b1, which alternates between light and dark areas every 180 degrees, is located on the inner periphery, and the second pattern 70b2, which alternates between light and dark areas every 90 degrees, is located on the outer periphery. However, the example of FIG. 4A allows for a smaller number of detectors 95 to be located on the inner periphery, making it possible to achieve a smaller size than the example of FIG. 4B.

[0025] 4(C), the arrangement of the plurality of detectors 95a to 95f relative to the reflector 70 will be described. The first to fourth detectors 95a to 95d are installed at positions facing the first pattern 70a1 on the outer periphery of the substrate 90, and are electrically connected to the substrate 90. The detectors 95a to 95d are arranged as follows. The first detection unit 95a is installed in one of a plurality of areas divided into 12 areas with the center of the reflector 70 as the reference. The second detector 95b is disposed at a position rotated 90 degrees counterclockwise in FIG. 4(C) from the first detector 95a. The third detection unit 95c is installed at a position rotated 60 degrees in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) to the first detection unit 95a relative to the second detection unit 95b. The fourth detector 95d is installed at a position rotated 60 degrees in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) to the second detector 95b relative to the third detector 95c. Although the arrangement of the plurality of detectors in the counterclockwise direction has been described with reference to Fig. 4C, the present invention is not limited to this example, and each detector may be arranged with the clockwise direction as the reference direction.

[0026] A fifth detector 95e and a sixth detector 95f are disposed at positions facing the second pattern 70a2. The fifth detector 95e and the sixth detector 95f are disposed at an angular interval of 60 degrees with respect to the center of the reflector 70, and are disposed at least 30 degrees apart from the first detector 95a.

[0027] The advantage of arranging the patterns 70a1 and 70a2 of the reflector 70 and the multiple detectors 95 as described above is that they can be made the same shape when the number of phases of the rotation operation member 20 is 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12. It is possible to standardize all parts of the rotation operation device except for the rotation operation member 20.

[0028] The arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 for each phase number and the detection signal from the detector 95 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. For ease of explanation, the ranges for each angle obtained by dividing 360 degrees by each phase number are denoted as areas (1) to (12) in Fig. 5. The black areas within the areas correspond to the dark areas in the pattern of the reflector 70.

[0029] FIG. 5(A-1) shows the arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 when the rotational operation member 20 has two phases. FIG. 5(A-2) shows the signals of the light and dark areas detected by the detector 95a when the rotational operation member 20 is rotated in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5(A-1). Area (1) corresponds to the state of FIG. 5(A-1). When the rotational operation member 20 has two phases, position detection can be performed using any one of the first through fourth detectors 95a through 95d. FIG. 5(A-2) shows the signal detected by the detector 95a when the rotational operation member 20 is in a predetermined position. In the state of FIG. 5(A-1), the detector 95a detects the dark areas of the pattern, but when the rotational operation member 20 is rotated 180 degrees in the direction of the arrow, the light areas of the pattern are detected. Note that when one of the detectors 95b, 95c, or 95d is selected, the relationship between the light and dark areas is reversed.

[0030] FIG. 5(B-1) shows the arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 when the rotation operation member 20 has four phases. In FIG. 5(B-1), the detector 95a detects the dark portion, and the detector 95b detects the light portion. FIG. 5(B-2) shows the signals of the light and dark portions detected by the detectors 95a and 95b when the rotation operation member 20 rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5(B-1). Area (1) corresponds to the state shown in FIG. 5(B-1). When the reflector 70 rotates 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5(B-1), the dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detector 95b, and both the detectors 95a and 95b output dark portion signals, as shown in area (2). When the reflector 70 rotates another 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow from this state, the light portion of the reflector 70 faces the detector 95a, and the dark portion faces the detector 95b. As shown in area (3), the detector 95a outputs a bright signal, and the detector 95b outputs a dark signal. When the reflector 70 is rotated another 90 degrees in the direction of the arrow from this state, the bright portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95a and 95b. As shown in area (4), both the detectors 95a and 95b output bright signals. As described above, by performing phase detection using the two detectors 95a and 95b, it is possible to detect four different states in areas (1) to (4) by combining light and dark areas.

[0031] Fig. 5(C-1) shows the arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 when the number of phases of the rotary operation member 20 is six. Fig. 5(C-2) shows the signals of the bright and dark areas detected by the detectors 95b, 95c, and 95d when the rotary operation member 20 is rotated in the direction of the arrow in Fig. 5(C-1). Area (1) corresponds to the state in Fig. 5(C-1). This will be explained in detail using Fig. 6.

[0032] Figure 6 is a detailed diagram of each phase when the reflector 70 shown in Figure 5(C-1) rotates. Figure 6(A) corresponds to Figure 5(C-1), and Figures 6(B) to 6(F) show the state when the reflector 70 rotates counterclockwise in 60-degree increments. Figure 6(G) corresponds to Figure 5(C-2).

[0033] FIG. 6(A) shows a state in which the detection units 95b, 95c, and 95d all output bright signals (see FIG. 6(G): area (1)). When the reflector 70 is rotated 60 degrees in the direction of the arrow from this state, the state shown in FIG. 6(B) is reached. The dark portion of the reflector 70 is positioned opposite the detection unit 95b. As shown in area (2) of FIG. 6(G), the detection unit 95b outputs a dark signal, and the detection units 95c and 95d both output bright signals.

[0034] When the reflector 70 is rotated another 60 degrees in the direction of the arrow from the state shown in Figure 6(B), it reaches the state shown in Figure 6(C). The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95b and 95c. As shown in area (3) of Figure 6(G), the detectors 95b and 95c both output dark portion signals, and the detector 95d outputs a light portion signal.

[0035] When the reflector 70 is rotated another 60 degrees in the direction of the arrow from the state shown in Figure 6(C), it reaches the state shown in Figure 6(D). The dark areas of the reflector 70 are now positioned opposite the detectors 95b, 95c, and 95d. As shown in area (4) in Figure 6(G), all of the detectors 95b, 95c, and 95d output signals corresponding to the dark areas.

[0036] When the reflector 70 is rotated another 60 degrees in the direction of the arrow from the state shown in Figure 6(D), it reaches the state shown in Figure 6(E). The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95c and 95d. As shown in area (5) in Figure 6(G), the detector 95b outputs a light portion signal, and both the detectors 95c and 95d output dark portion signals.

[0037] When the reflector 70 is rotated another 60 degrees in the direction of the arrow from the state shown in Figure 6(E), it reaches the state shown in Figure 6(F). The dark portion of the reflector 70 is now positioned opposite the detector 95d. As shown in area (6) of Figure 6(G), the detectors 95b and 95c both output a light portion signal, and the detector 95d outputs a dark portion signal. As described above, by performing phase detection using the three detectors 95b, 95c, and 95d, it is possible to detect six different states in areas (1) to (6) by combining light and dark areas.

[0038] FIG. 5(D-1) shows the arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 when the number of phases of the rotary operation member 20 is 8. FIG. 5(D-1) shows a state in which the detectors 95a and 95e output dark signals, and the detector 95b outputs a light signal. FIG. 5(D-2) shows the light and dark signals detected by the detectors 95a, 95b, and 95e when the rotary operation member 20 rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5(D-1). Area (1) corresponds to the state in FIG. 5(D-1). Using the state in FIG. 5(D-1) as a reference, the output states of each detector when the reflector 70 rotates 45 degrees in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) are listed below.

[0039] When rotated 45 degrees: The dark parts of the reflector 70 are positioned opposite the detection units 95a, 95b, and 95e, and all three detection units output signals from the dark parts (see area (2) in Figure 5(D-2)). When rotated 90 degrees: The dark parts of the reflector 70 are positioned opposite the detection units 95a and 95b, and the detection units 95a and 95b output signals for the dark parts, and the detection unit 95e outputs a signal for the light parts (see area (3) in Figure 5(D-2)). When rotated 135 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detection unit 95b. The detection unit 95b outputs a dark portion signal, and the detection units 95a and 95e both output light portion signals (see area (4) in FIG. 5(D-2)). When rotated 180 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95b and 95e. Both the detectors 95b and 95e output signals for the dark portion, and the detector 95a outputs a signal for the bright portion (see area (5) in FIG. 5(D-2)). When rotated 225 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detection unit 95e. The detection unit 95e outputs a dark portion signal, and both the detection units 95a and 95b output light portion signals (see area (6) in FIG. 5(D-2)). When rotated 270 degrees: The bright areas of the reflector 70 are positioned opposite the detectors 95a, 95b, and 95e. All three detectors output signals from the bright areas (see area (7) in Figure 5(D-2)). At 315° rotation: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detector 95a. The detector 95a outputs a dark portion signal, and the detectors 95b and 95e both output light portion signals (see area (8) in FIG. 5(D-2)). By performing phase detection using the three detectors 95a, 95b, and 95e as described above, it is possible to detect eight different states in areas (1) to (8) by combining light and dark areas.

[0040] FIG. 5(E-1) shows the arrangement of the reflector 70 and the detector 95 when the number of phases of the rotary operation member 20 is 12. FIG. 5(E-1) shows a state in which the detectors 95a and 95e output dark signals, and the detectors 95b and 95f output light signals. FIG. 5(E-2) shows the light and dark signals detected by the detectors 95a, 95b, 95e, and 95f when the rotary operation member 20 rotates in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 5(E-1). Area (1) corresponds to the state in FIG. 5(E-1). Using the state in FIG. 5(E-1) as a reference, the output states of each detector when the reflector 70 rotates 30 degrees in the direction of the arrow (counterclockwise) are listed below.

[0041] When rotated 30 degrees: The dark portions of the reflector 70 face the detection units 95a, 95b, and 95e. The detection units 95a, 95b, and 95e all output signals for the dark portions, and the detection unit 95f outputs signals for the light portions (see area (2) in FIG. 5(E-2)). When rotated 60 degrees: The dark areas of the reflector 70 are positioned opposite the detection units 95a, 95b, 95e, and 95f. All four detection units output signals from the dark areas (see area (3) in Figure 5(E-2)). When rotated 90 degrees: The dark portions of the reflector 70 face the detection units 95a, 95b, and 95f. The detection units 95a, 95b, and 95f all output signals for the dark portions, and the detection unit 95e outputs a signal for the bright portions (see area (4) in FIG. 5(E-2)). When rotated 120 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95b and 95f. Both detectors 95b and 95f output dark portion signals, and both detectors 95a and 95e output light portion signals (see area (5) in Figure 5(E-2)). When rotated 150 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detection unit 95b. The detection unit 95b outputs a dark portion signal, and the detection units 95a, 95e, and 95f all output light portion signals (see area (6) in FIG. 5(E-2)). When rotated 180 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95b and 95e. Both the detectors 95b and 95e output dark portion signals, and both the detectors 95a and 95f output light portion signals (see area (7) in FIG. 5(E-2)). When rotated 210 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detection unit 95e. The detection unit 95e outputs a dark portion signal, and the detection units 95a, 95b, and 95f all output light portion signals (see area (8) in FIG. 5(E-2)). When rotated 240 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detectors 95e and 95f. Both detectors 95e and 95f output dark portion signals, and both detectors 95a and 95b output light portion signals (see area (9) in Figure 5(E-2)). When rotated 270 degrees: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detection unit 95f. The detection unit 95f outputs a dark portion signal, and the detection units 95a, 95b, and 95e all output light portion signals (see area (10) in FIG. 5(E-2)). At 300° rotation: The dark portions of the reflector 70 face the detectors 95a and 95f. Both detectors 95a and 95f output dark portion signals, and both detectors 95b and 95e output light portion signals (see area (11) in FIG. 5(E-2)). At 330° rotation: The dark portion of the reflector 70 faces the detector 95a. The detector 95a outputs a dark portion signal, and the detectors 95b, 95e, and 95f all output light portion signals (see area (12) in FIG. 5(E-2)). By performing phase detection using the four detectors 95a, 95b, 95e, and 95f as described above, it is possible to detect 12 different states in areas (1) to (12) by combining light and dark areas.

[0042] 5, the arrangement of the detectors and their output signals for each phase number are described, but the number of detectors 95 mounted on the board may be all six as shown in Fig. 4(C). Alternatively, the number of detectors mounted on the board may be reduced depending on the phase number as shown in Fig. 5(A-1), (B-1), (C-1), (D-1), and (E-1), which contributes to cost reduction.

[0043] Next, a method for aligning the phases of the rotary operation member 20 and the reflector 70 will be described. The rotary operation member 20 has grooves 21 extending radially from the center of the shaft, and is formed with a wave-like uneven portion having alternating valleys and peaks extending radially from the center of the shaft at regular intervals. The apexes of the peaks coincide with the rotational phases of the transition positions between the light and dark areas of the first pattern 70a1 or the second pattern 70a2 of the reflector 70. If the number of phases is denoted as n, the bottom position of the grooves 21 corresponds to a position rotated 180 / n degrees from the peak of the peak. For example, when the number of phases shown in FIG. 5(E-1) is 12, the click balls 30 and 31 engage with the grooves 21 every 30 degrees of phase. At this time, the reflector 70 remains in a position corresponding to one of areas (1) to (12). Since the click balls 30 and 31 reliably stop in a state corresponding to one of the areas (1) to (12), the user can sense the click force, and the detection unit 95 can stably detect a signal.

[0044] In the above example, a click mechanism using the groove 21 of the rotation operation member 20, the click balls 30, 31, and the compression springs 40, 41 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Modified embodiments are shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0045] Fig. 7 shows an example of a holding mechanism for a rotation operation member as a first modified embodiment. Fig. 7(A) is an exploded perspective view of the rotation operation member. Fig. 7(B) is a perspective view of a backing plate 260 having a groove 261. The difference is that while the groove 21 is formed in the rotation operation member 20 in the example of Fig. 2, the groove 261 is formed in the backing plate 260 in the example of Fig. 7.

[0046] In the first modified embodiment, the rotation operation member 220 is held by biasing the click balls 230, 231 against the groove portion 261 with compression springs 240, 241. The biasing direction of the click balls 230, 231 is downward in FIG. 7, but it may also be upward. For example, components of the receiving plate 260 may be disposed inside the rotation operation member 220.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 8 , another example of a holding mechanism for a rotary operation member is shown as a second modified embodiment. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the mode dial unit 2 as viewed from the interior side. The groove 361 is formed as a separate component from the rotary operation member, and the click ball 330 is biased by a compression spring 340 to engage with the groove 361. However, the biasing direction of the click ball 330 is the radial direction, and the recessed and protruding portions of the groove 361 are continuously formed along the circumferential direction. For example, the groove 361 can be formed in the reflector 70 shown in FIG. 2. Forming the groove 361 in the reflector 70 reduces the number of components. The configuration of FIG. 8 , like the examples of FIGS. 2 and 7 , can maintain the rotational phase of the rotary operation member 20 and improve the click force and operational feel. In particular, when it is desired to reduce the vertical dimension of the rotary operation member, it is desirable to adopt the configuration shown in the second modified embodiment.

[0048] According to the above-described embodiment and modified embodiment, it is possible to provide a smaller rotary operation device that reduces false detections by adopting an optical detection method, makes it easy to change the number of phases (resolution), and enables the rotary operation member to rotate over the entire circumference.

[0049] While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the electronic device in which the rotary operation member is mounted is not limited to an imaging device, but can be applied to a wide range of appliances, such as household electrical appliances, measuring instruments, and vehicles.

[0050] Embodiments of the present disclosure include the following configurations. [Configuration 1] a rotation operation member that can rotate around a rotation axis; a reflecting member that can rotate integrally with the rotation operation member; a detection means for detecting light reflected by the reflecting member, The reflecting member is provided with a plurality of detection target portions each having a bright portion and a dark portion, a first detected portion of the plurality of detected portions is a portion formed in an annular shape in which a light portion and a dark portion alternate every 180 degrees around the rotation axis, a second detected portion of the plurality of detected portions is a portion formed in an annular shape in which a light portion and a dark portion alternate every 90 degrees around the rotation axis, The angle at which the first detected portion switches between a light portion and a dark portion is the same as the angle at which the second detected portion switches between a light portion and a dark portion. A rotary operation device characterized by: [Configuration 2] The first detected portion is located on the outer periphery side of the reflecting member, and the second detected portion is located on the inner periphery side of the reflecting member. 2. The rotary operation device according to configuration 1, [Configuration 3] The first detected portion is located on the inner circumferential side of the reflecting member, and the second detected portion is located on the outer circumferential side of the reflecting member. 2. The rotary operation device according to configuration 1, [Configuration 4] The detecting means has one of the detecting means facing the first detected part. 4. The rotary operation device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3. [Configuration 5] a first detecting means and a second detecting means facing the first detected portion; The first and second detection means are installed at intervals of 90 degrees around the rotation axis. 4. The rotary operation device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3. [Configuration 6] The device has first to third detecting means facing the first detected portion, The first to third detection means are installed at intervals of 60 degrees around the rotation axis. 4. The rotary operation device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3. [Configuration 7] a third detecting means facing the second detected portion; 6. The rotary operation device according to configuration 5. [Configuration 8] third and fourth detecting means facing the second detected portion; The third and fourth detection means are installed at intervals of 60 degrees around the rotation axis, and are installed at least 30 degrees apart around the rotation axis from the first detection means. 6. The rotary operation device according to configuration 5. [Configuration 9] The third detection means is installed on the opposite side of the first detection means with respect to the position of the fourth detection means. 9. The rotary operation device according to configuration 8. [Configuration 10] The holding mechanism for the rotation operation member has a sphere, an elastic member, and a groove, and the sphere is biased toward the groove by the elastic member. 10. The rotary operation device according to any one of configurations 1 to 9. [Configuration 11] The groove is provided in the rotation operation member. 11. The rotary operation device according to configuration 10. [Configuration 12] The groove is provided in the receiving plate of the reflecting member. 11. The rotary operation device according to configuration 10. [Configuration 13] The reflecting member has the groove. 11. The rotary operation device according to configuration 10. [Configuration 14] The number of the detecting means varies depending on the number of phases of the rotary operation member. 4. The rotary operation device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3. [Configuration 15] The rotary operation device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects is provided. An electronic device characterized by: [Explanation of symbols]

[0051] 1 camera 2 Mode dial unit 20, 220 Rotation operating member 70 Reflector

Claims

1. a rotation operation member that can rotate around a rotation axis; a reflecting member that can rotate integrally with the rotation operation member; a detection means for detecting light reflected by the reflecting member, The reflecting member is provided with a plurality of detection target portions each having a bright portion and a dark portion, a first detected portion of the plurality of detected portions is a portion formed in an annular shape in which a light portion and a dark portion alternate every 180 degrees around the rotation axis, a second detected portion of the plurality of detected portions is a portion formed in an annular shape in which a light portion and a dark portion alternate every 90 degrees around the rotation axis, The angle at which the first detected portion switches between a light portion and a dark portion is the same as the angle at which the second detected portion switches between a light portion and a dark portion. A rotary operation device characterized by:

2. The first detected portion is located on the outer periphery side of the reflecting member, and the second detected portion is located on the inner periphery side of the reflecting member.

2. The rotary operation device according to claim 1.

3. The first detected portion is located on the inner circumferential side of the reflecting member, and the second detected portion is located on the outer circumferential side of the reflecting member.

2. The rotary operation device according to claim 1.

4. The detecting means is located opposite to the first detected portion.

4. The rotary operation device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary operation device is a rotary operation device.

5. a first detecting means and a second detecting means facing the first detected portion; The first and second detection means are installed at intervals of 90 degrees around the rotation axis.

4. The rotary operation device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary operation device is a rotary operation device.

6. The device has first to third detecting means facing the first detected portion, The first to third detection means are installed at intervals of 60 degrees around the rotation axis.

4. The rotary operation device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary operation device is a rotary operation device.

7. a third detecting means facing the second detected portion; 6. The rotary operation device according to claim 5.

8. third and fourth detecting means facing the second detected portion; The third and fourth detection means are installed at intervals of 60 degrees around the rotation axis, and are installed at least 30 degrees apart around the rotation axis from the first detection means.

6. The rotary operation device according to claim 5.

9. The third detection means is installed on the opposite side of the first detection means with respect to the position of the fourth detection means.

9. The rotary operation device according to claim 8.

10. The holding mechanism for the rotation operation member has a sphere, an elastic member, and a groove, and the sphere is biased toward the groove by the elastic member.

2. The rotary operation device according to claim 1.

11. The groove is provided in the rotation operation member. The rotary operation device according to claim 10 .

12. The groove is provided in the receiving plate of the reflecting member. The rotary operation device according to claim 10 .

13. The reflecting member has the groove. The rotary operation device according to claim 10 .

14. The number of the detecting means varies depending on the number of phases of the rotary operation member.

4. The rotary operation device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary operation device is a rotary operation device.

15. A rotary operation device according to claim 1 is provided. An electronic device characterized by:

Images