Imaging apparatus

Abstract

To provide an imaging apparatus prevents an increase in size even when the width of a wiring part of an FPC is increased and heat dissipation from an image pick-up device is improved.SOLUTION: An imaging apparatus comprises: a stationary part; a movable part that arranges an image pick-up device movably relative to the stationary part within a predetermined range in a plane orthogonal to an optical axis of an imaging optical system; and a first imaging FPC 61, a third imaging FPC 63, and a heat transfer member 80 that connect the movable part and the stationary part to each other. The first imaging FPC, third imaging FPC, and heat transfer member have linear parts that extend in different extension directions orthogonal to the optical axis and separating from the optical axis, and bent parts that are connected to the linear parts at one ends and bent in the direction of the optical axis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device, and more particularly to an imaging device equipped with a drive device that performs position control. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been known a driving device that moves a movable part relative to a fixed part within a plane.

[0003] An example of an application of such a drive device is a vibration reduction mechanism mounted on an imaging device. In the vibration reduction mechanism, a circuit board on which an imaging element is mounted is mounted on a movable part, and electrical connection parts such as connectors are also mounted on this circuit board. Meanwhile, a control board on which a control unit that drives and controls the movable part is mounted is mounted on a fixed part, such as a housing that holds the movable part, and electrical connection parts such as connectors are also mounted on this control board.

[0004] The electrical connection parts mounted on the movable and fixed parts are electrically connected by an FPC (flexible printed circuit board). Utilizing the flexibility of this FPC, the control unit mounted on the fixed part is electrically connected to the movable part and controls its operation.

[0005] In recent years, the number of connection signals for image sensors has increased due to improvements in imaging device functionality, such as higher pixel counts for video and high-speed continuous shooting, and the width of the wiring portion of the FPC has also increased. Such an increase in the width of the wiring portion of the FPC places a burden on the driving of the moving part. For this reason, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for reducing the driving load of the moving part by arranging multiple FPCs so that they do not overlap when the imaging device is viewed from the back. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-64281 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, Patent Document 1 does not disclose any means for solving another problem that arises as the performance of image sensors improves: the increase in heat generated by the image sensor due to increased power consumption. One possible way to solve this problem is to connect the movable part and the fixed part with a heat transfer member to dissipate the heat generated by the image sensor, but if the width of the wiring part of the FPC is increased and a heat transfer member is provided, there is a risk that the image stabilization mechanism will become larger, and ultimately the image sensor will become larger.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to prevent the size of an imaging device from increasing even when the width of the wiring portion of an FPC is increased and heat dissipation from the imaging element is improved. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, the imaging device of claim 1 of the present invention comprises a first unit, a second unit in which an imaging element is arranged so as to be movable relative to the first unit within a predetermined range in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of an imaging optical system, and at least three connecting members that connect the first unit and the second unit, each of the at least three connecting members having a straight portion that extends from the second unit in different extension directions perpendicular to the optical axis and away from the optical axis, and a curved portion that is connected to one end of the straight portion and curves in the direction of the optical axis, and is connected to the first unit via the curved portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an imaging device that does not become large even when the width of the wiring portion of the FPC is increased and heat dissipation from the imaging element is improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an imaging device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded perspective view of a shake correction unit provided in the imaging device in FIG. 1, the shake correction unit having a movable portion and a fixed portion. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is another exploded perspective view of the image stabilization unit included in the imaging device. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is another exploded perspective view of the movable portion. [Figure 6] 1 is an exploded perspective view of a biasing magnetic circuit and a detecting magnetic circuit formed by combining a movable part and a fixed part. FIG. [Figure 7] 3A and 3B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view of a detection magnetic circuit taken along the optical axis. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging device. [Figure 9] 9A and 9B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction when the first imaging FPC in FIG. 8 is assembled. [Figure 10] 9A and 9B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction when the second imaging FPC in FIG. 8 is assembled. [Figure 11] 9A and 9B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction when the third imaging FPC in FIG. 8 is assembled. [Figure 12] 2A and 2B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of a component of a heat dissipation path of the imaging element in FIG. 1; [Figure 13] 3A and 3B are a projection view and a cross-sectional view of the image stabilization unit taken along the optical axis. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Here, the description will be given taking as an example a configuration in which a drive unit according to the present invention is applied to an image stabilization device for an imaging device, but application examples of the drive unit according to the present invention are not limited to image stabilization devices.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an imaging device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] The imaging device 10 is a so-called mirrorless digital camera, and has an imaging device body 10a (hereinafter referred to as "body portion 10a") and a lens barrel 10b that is detachable from the body portion 10a.

[0015] Main body 10a includes imaging element 11 having a substantially rectangular imaging surface 11a, main body-side mount member 13a, base member 13c, camera control unit 14, shake correction control unit 15, vibration detection unit 16, image processing unit 17, and shake correction unit 20. Lens barrel 10b includes imaging optical system 12 and lens-side mount member 13b.

[0016] A virtual light ray representing the light beam irradiated onto the imaging surface 11a of the imaging element 11 via the imaging optical system 12 is referred to as the "imaging optical axis 12a" (hereinafter referred to as the "optical axis 12a"), and a plane perpendicular to the optical axis 12a is referred to as the "optical axis perpendicular plane" (hereinafter referred to as the "optical axis perpendicular plane 12c"). The optical axis 12a passes through the center of the imaging surface 11a and is perpendicular to the imaging surface 11a. In addition, to clarify the arrangement and positional relationship of each component constituting the imaging device 10 within the imaging device 10, the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction, which are perpendicular to each other, are defined as shown in FIG. 1. The Z direction is parallel to the optical axis 12a, the X direction is the width direction of the imaging device 10, and the Y direction is the height direction of the imaging device 10. When the X direction and the Z direction are both in a horizontal plane, the Y direction is the vertical direction. Therefore, the optical axis perpendicular plane 12c is an XY plane.

[0017] The imaging element 11 is composed of a photoelectric conversion element such as a CMOS image sensor or a CCD image sensor, and is arranged with its imaging surface 11a facing the subject (the lens barrel 10b side) and perpendicular to the optical axis 12a. The imaging element 11 generates an image signal by photoelectrically converting an optical image of the subject formed on the imaging surface 11a by the imaging optical system 12. The image signal generated by the imaging element 11 is converted into image data through various processes in the image processing unit 17 and stored in a memory (storage device) not shown.

[0018] The camera control unit 14 is a calculation means within a main IC (not shown), and controls the overall operation of the imaging device 10 by receiving input operations from a user via an operation means (not shown).

[0019] The imaging optical system 12 is composed of a lens group arranged inside the lens barrel 10b, which forms an image of a light beam incident from the subject side on the imaging surface 11a of the imaging element 11. While FIG. 1 shows three lenses included in the lens group, the number of lenses included in the lens group is not limited to three and may be one or more. In the imaging device 10, in order to position the imaging element 11 with high positional accuracy relative to the optical axis 12a, the imaging element 11 is attached to a base member 13c provided on the main body 10a, and the lens barrel 10b is also connected to the base member 13c. In this case, the imaging element 11 is attached to the base member 13c via the image stabilization unit 20. The lens barrel 10b is also connected to the base member 13c via the lens-side mount member 13b and the main body-side mount member 13a.

[0020] The image stabilization unit 20 corrects image blur caused by vibrations in the imaging device 10 by moving the imaging element 11 in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis or rotating it within the plane 12c perpendicular to the optical axis, thereby enabling a clear image of the subject to be obtained. Specifically, if the orientation of the imaging device 10 changes relative to the subject during imaging, the imaging position of the subject light beam on the imaging surface 11a of the imaging element 11 changes, causing blur in the image obtained through the imaging element 11. In this case, if the change in orientation of the imaging device 10 is sufficiently small, the change in the imaging position is uniform within the imaging surface 11a and can be considered as at least one of a translational movement and a rotational movement within the plane 12c perpendicular to the optical axis (image plane blur). Therefore, by performing at least one of a translational movement and a rotational movement of the imaging element 11 within the plane 12c perpendicular to the optical axis to cancel out this image plane blur, a clear image of the subject with image blur corrected can be obtained. The image stabilization unit 20 may be configured to move the image sensor 11 in a direction parallel to the image pickup surface 11a, while also moving the image sensor 11 in a direction perpendicular to the image pickup surface 11a.

[0021] As will be described later with reference to Figure 2 etc., the image stabilization unit 20 generally has a fixed part 20a, a movable part 20b, and a plurality of drive force generation parts. The fixed part 20a is fixed to the base member 13c, and the movable part 20b holds the image sensor 11. The movable part 20b is supported by the fixed part 20a with three degrees of freedom, and is arranged to be movable and rotatable relative to the fixed part 20a within the plane 12c orthogonal to the optical axis. In other words, the image stabilization unit 20 is configured as a drive device (a so-called XYθ stage) capable of drive control on three axes, and is capable of moving and rotating the image sensor 11 within the plane 12c orthogonal to the optical axis.

[0022] The vibration detection unit 16 is configured with a gyro sensor, an acceleration sensor, etc., and is a shake detection means that detects angular velocity and acceleration in each direction of the imaging device 10 as shake information of the imaging device 10.

[0023] The shake correction control unit 15 calculates the amount of angular change and the amount of movement in each direction of the imaging device 10 based on shake information such as angular velocity and acceleration detected by the vibration detection unit 16. Furthermore, the shake correction control unit 15 calculates a target movement value for the imaging element 11 based on the shake information detected by the vibration detection unit 16, and controls the drive of the shake correction unit 20, thereby controlling the movement of the imaging element 11. Since any known method can be used to calculate the amount of angular change, the amount of movement, and the target movement value based on the shake information, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0024] Next, the detailed configuration of the image stabilization unit 20 will be described.

[0025] 2 and 3 are exploded perspective views of the image stabilization unit 20, with the image stabilization unit 20 viewed from different directions in FIGS. 2 and 3. The image stabilization unit 20 includes a fixed portion 20a (first unit) and a movable portion 20b (second unit). Note that in FIGS. 2 and 3, the movable portion 20b is shown unexploded, while the fixed portion 20a is shown exploded. The fixed portion 20a and the movable portion 20b are each formed by combining one or more members.

[0026] The fixed portion 20a has a fixed member 21, a first rear yoke 22a, a second rear yoke 22b, a first rear magnet group 23a, a second rear magnet group 23b, and a third rear magnet group 23c. The first rear magnet group 23a and the second rear magnet group 23b are fixed to the first rear yoke 22a, and the third rear magnet group 23c is fixed to the second rear yoke 22b, respectively, with an adhesive or the like.

[0027] The fixed part 20a also has a first pillar member 24a, a second pillar member 24b, a third pillar member 24c, a front yoke 25, a first front magnet group 26a, a second front magnet group 26b, and a third front magnet group 26c. The front yoke 25 is fixed to the fixed member 21 with screws via the first pillar member 24a, the second pillar member 24b, and the third pillar member 24c. The first front magnet group 26a, the second front magnet group 26b, and the third front magnet group 26c are each fixed to the front yoke 25 with an adhesive or the like.

[0028] The fixed portion 20a further includes a detection magnet group 27, a detection yoke 28, a restricting member 29, and a cover 30. The detection magnet group 27 is composed of a first detection magnet group 27a, a second detection magnet group 27b, and a third detection magnet group 27c. In this embodiment, the first detection magnet group 27a, the second detection magnet group 27b, and the third detection magnet group 27c are each composed of two magnets magnetized in the optical axis direction (Z direction) and arranged with a gap between them so that they generate magnetic fields in opposite directions. However, this is not limited to this, and a single magnet magnetized with two poles may also be used. Each of the detection magnet group 27 is fixed to the detection yoke 28 with adhesive or the like. The first rear yoke 22a, the second rear yoke 22b, the front yoke 25, and the detection yoke 28 function as yokes, and therefore, magnetic materials are used.

[0029] The fixed part 20a is referred to as the fixed part 20a because it is a unit that serves as a reference for the position when the movable part 20b moves, but the fixed part 20a may also be configured to be held movably so that its position can be adjusted relative to the main body part 10a.

[0030] Furthermore, as will be described later, the fixed portion 20a is configured to support the movable portion 20b via multiple balls, but for example, the base member 13c and the movable portion 20b may be connected by a spring or wire, etc., to support the movable portion 20b.

[0031] 4 and 5 are exploded perspective views of the movable portion 20b, and the direction in which the movable portion 20b is viewed is different between FIG. 4 and FIG.

[0032] The movable section 20b has an imaging element holding member 31 and the imaging element 11, and the imaging element 11 is fixed to the imaging element holding member 31 with screws, adhesive, or the like (not shown). One end of an imaging FPC 60 (first wiring member) is connected to the imaging element 11. The other end of the imaging FPC 60 is connected to a control board 70 (FIG. 8), and power is supplied to the imaging element 11 and imaging signals are transmitted via the imaging FPC 60, as will be described in detail later.

[0033] The movable section 20b also has a mask 32a, an infrared absorption filter 32b, and an optical low-pass filter 32c. The mask 32a, the infrared absorption filter 32b, and the optical low-pass filter 32c are held by a holder member 32d and a holder metal plate 32e, and are fixed to the image sensor 11 with an adhesive member or the like. Note that the configuration may not include at least one of the mask 32a, the infrared absorption filter 32b, and the optical low-pass filter 32c.

[0034] The movable part 20b further includes a first coil 33a, a second coil 33b, a third coil 33c, and a driving FPC 34. The driving FPC 34 is electrically connected to the first coil 33a, the second coil 33b, and the third coil 33c. The driving FPC 34 is disposed so as to overlap the first coil 33a, the second coil 33b, and the third coil 33c on the optical axis projection plane (on the XY plane when viewed from the Z direction), and is fixed to the imaging element holding member 31 with an adhesive or the like.

[0035] The imaging element holding member 31 has a first opening 31a, a second opening 31b, and a third opening 31c. The first coil 33a is disposed inside the first opening 31a, the second coil 33b is disposed inside the second opening 31b, and the third coil 33c is disposed inside the third opening 31c.

[0036] Furthermore, the movable portion 20b is provided with a connecting member 38 (movable member), which bridges the opening 31i of the imaging element holding member 31 and is fixed to the imaging element holding member 31 with screws 45 on both sides of the optical axis. In other words, the connecting member 38 is thermally connected to the imaging element 11 and is disposed opposite the imaging element 11. The connecting member 38 is provided with contact portions 38i in two locations, and the contact portions 38i come into contact with the restricting members 29 of the fixed portion 20a, thereby restricting the movement of the movable portion 20b within the plane 12c orthogonal to the optical axis within a predetermined range.

[0037] The thrust yoke 40 and the heat transfer member 80 are fixed to one side of the optical axis orthogonal plane 12c of the connecting member 38, and the detection FPC 36 is fixed to the other side with an adhesive or the like. The thrust yoke 40 is made of a magnetic material to fulfill the role of a yoke.

[0038] The detection FPC 36 is equipped with a detector 35. The detector 35 uses a Hall element or the like, and is made up of a first detector 35a, a second detector 35b, and a third detector 35c.

[0039] The connecting member 38 has a first opening 38a, a second opening 38b, and a third opening 38c. The first detector 35a is disposed inside the first opening 38a, the second detector 35b is disposed inside the second opening 38b, and the third detector 35c is disposed inside the third opening 38c.

[0040] 2 and 3, a first ball 44a, a second ball 44b, and a third ball 44c are provided between the fixed part 20a and the movable part 20b. When the movable part 20b operates, the first ball 44a, the second ball 44b, and the third ball 44c roll, allowing the movable part 20b to move smoothly on the plane 12c orthogonal to the optical axis relative to the fixed part 20a.

[0041] The fixed part 20a and the movable part 20b are combined to form a VCM (voice coil motor), a magnetic circuit for detection, and a magnetic circuit for biasing. These circuits will be described below.

[0042] First, the VCM (voice coil motor) will be explained.

[0043] In the fixed portion 20a, the first rear magnet group 23a and the first front magnet group 26a, which are arranged side by side in the optical axis direction, form a first driving magnetic circuit. Similarly, the second rear magnet group 23b and the second front magnet group 26b form a second driving magnetic circuit, and the third rear magnet group 23c and the third front magnet group 26c form a third driving magnetic circuit. The first driving magnetic circuit and the first coil 33a in the movable portion 20b form a VCM as a first actuator. The second driving magnetic circuit and the second coil 33b in the movable portion 20b form a VCM as a second actuator. The third driving magnetic circuit and the third coil 33c in the movable portion 20b form a VCM as a third actuator. A Lorentz force is generated in a direction perpendicular to the magnetic field generated in the optical axis direction by the first drive magnetic circuit and the current flowing through the first coil 33a, and the resultant direction of the Lorentz force changes depending on the direction of current flow through the first coil 33a. Similar Lorentz forces are generated by the second drive magnetic circuit and second coil 33b, and by the third drive magnetic circuit and third coil 33c. The first and second actuators generate forces (drive forces) approximately parallel to the Y direction, and the sum of the respective forces generates a translational force in the Y direction, while the difference between the respective forces generates a rotational force around the optical axis. Meanwhile, the third actuator generates a translational force in the X direction. Furthermore, the sum of the forces generated by the first to third actuators generates a rotational force around the optical axis.

[0044] Next, the biasing magnetic circuit and the detecting magnetic circuit will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0045] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the biasing magnetic circuit and the detecting magnetic circuit. Fig. 7(a) is a projection view of the detecting magnetic circuit when viewed from the subject side in the optical axis direction. Fig. 7(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow AA in Fig. 7(a).

[0046] First, the biasing magnetic circuit will be described.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, the fixed part 20a has a detection magnet group 27, and the movable part 20b has a thrust yoke 40 at a position facing the detection magnet group 27. Regarding the first detection magnet group 27a, as shown in FIG. 7(b), magnetic flux from the first detection magnet group 27a flows through the thrust yoke 40, generating an attractive force between the first detection magnet group 27a and the thrust yoke 40. A similar attractive force is generated between the second detection magnet group 27b and the thrust yoke 40, and between the third detection magnet group 27c and the thrust yoke 40. In this way, the attractive force acting between the detection magnet group 27 of the fixed part 20a and the thrust yoke 40 of the movable part 20b biases the movable part 20b in the optical axis direction (Z direction) relative to the fixed part 20a.

[0048] Next, the detection magnetic circuit will be described.

[0049] 6, the thrust yoke 40, the first detection magnet group 27a, and the detection yoke 28, which are arranged side by side in the optical axis direction, form a first magnetic circuit for detection. Similarly, the thrust yoke 40, the second detection magnet group 27b, and the detection yoke 28 form a second magnetic circuit for detection, and the thrust yoke 40, the third detection magnet group 27c, and the detection yoke 28 form a third magnetic circuit for detection.

[0050] The first detector 35a is disposed opposite the first detection magnet group 27a, the second detector 35b is disposed opposite the second detection magnet group 27b, and the third detector 35c is disposed opposite the third detection magnet group 27c. The thrust yoke 40 is disposed on the opposite side of the detector 35 from the detection magnet group 27 in the optical axis direction. When viewed from the optical axis direction, the thrust yoke 40 is disposed so as to cover the detector 35.

[0051] The first detection magnetic circuit and the first detector 35a will be described with reference to FIG. 7(b). The first detector 35a is disposed between the first detection magnet group 27a and the thrust yoke 40. Therefore, the first detector 35a performs position detection while the magnetic flux of the first detection magnet group 27a flows through the thrust yoke 40. Similarly, the second detector 35b performs position detection while the magnetic flux of the second detection magnet group 27b flows through the thrust yoke 40. Furthermore, the third detector 35c performs position detection while the magnetic flux of the third detection magnet group 27c flows through the thrust yoke 40. In this manner, the detector 35 performs position detection within the magnetic field formed by the detection magnet group 27 of the fixed part 20a and the thrust yoke 40 of the movable part 20b, thereby enabling highly accurate position detection. In this embodiment, the detection magnet group 27 is disposed in the fixed part 20a, and the detector 35 is disposed in the movable part 20b. When comparing the weights of the detection magnet group 27 and the detector 35, the detector 35 is lighter, and therefore the configuration in which the detector 35 is arranged on the movable part 20b can reduce the driving load on the movable part 20b compared to the configuration in which the detection magnet group 27 is arranged on the movable part 20b.

[0052] It should be noted that a configuration with a thrust yoke 40 can improve the position detection accuracy of the detector 35 because the magnetic field is more stable than a configuration without the thrust yoke 40, but the thrust yoke 40 is not essential for position detection by the detector 35.

[0053] Furthermore, although the thrust yoke 40 is used as both the biasing magnetic circuit and the detecting magnetic circuit in the above-described embodiment, it is also possible to use separate yokes for the biasing magnetic circuit and the detecting magnetic circuit.

[0054] Next, the imaging FPC 60 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0055] The imaging FPC 60 is composed of a first imaging FPC 61, a second imaging FPC 62, and a third imaging FPC 63. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging device 10. FIGS. 9, 10, and 11 show the imaging FPCs arranged in the order of assembly. FIG. 9 shows a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of the first imaging FPC 61 when assembled. FIG. 9(a) shows a projection view, and FIG. 9(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along arrow BB in FIG. 9(a). FIG. 10 shows a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of the second imaging FPC 62 when assembled. FIG. 10(a) shows a projection view, and FIG. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along arrow CC in FIG. 10(a). FIG. 11 shows a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of the third imaging FPC 63 when assembled. 11(a) shows a projection view, FIG. 11(b) shows a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow DD shown in FIG. 11(a), and FIG. 11(c) shows a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow EE shown in FIG. 11(a).

[0056] The imaging FPC 60 connects the imaging element 11 inside the image stabilization unit 20 (FIG. 8) to the control board 70 (FIG. 8), but the control board 70 is omitted from FIGS. 9 to 11. Also, in FIGS. 9 to 11, only the cover 30 of the fixed part 20a is shown.

[0057] 9 to 11 will be explained in terms of directions relative to the respective projection planes. Specifically, the -Z direction is rear, the +X direction is left, the +Y direction is up, and the -Y direction is down.

[0058] First, the first imaging FPC 61 (first connection member) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0059] The first imaging FPC 61 is composed of a first wiring portion 61a, a first connection portion 61b, and a second connection portion 61c, and has a power supply wiring electrically connected from the first connection portion 61b to the second connection portion 61c via the first wiring portion 61a. The first imaging FPC 61 is connected to the imaging element 11 at the first connection portion 61b, and is connected to the control board 70 at the second connection portion 61c. In addition to the power supply wiring, the first imaging FPC 61 also has a ground wiring and wiring necessary for the imaging element 11.

[0060] The first wiring portion 61a extends downward from the first connection portion 61b, then curves rearward, passes through the first opening 30a of the cover 30, and extends upward. The first wiring portion 61a then curves leftward to a first attachment portion 65, where it is fixed to the cover 30 with double-sided tape or the like. The first wiring portion 61a then curves at the end of the first attachment portion 65 and extends upward. The first wiring portion 61a then curves rearward and connects to the second connection portion 61c. The portion from the first connection portion 61b to the first curve is referred to as a first straight portion 61d, the first curved portion is referred to as a first curved portion 61e, and the portion beyond the first curved portion 61e is referred to as a second straight portion 61f. 9(a), the second linear portion 61f is a straight line when viewed from the X direction, but has two curved portions in the XY plane, and a portion parallel to and perpendicular to the first linear portion 61d. In this embodiment, the second linear portion 61f has two curved portions in the XY plane, but may have two or more curved portions.

[0061] The first wiring portion 61a is attached to the cover 30, which is a component of the fixed portion 20a, by the first mounting portion 65. Therefore, the range from the second connection portion 61c to the first mounting portion 65 is a fixed portion, while the first wiring portion 61a is configured to be movable in accordance with the movement of the movable portion 20b in the range from the first connection portion 61b to the first mounting portion 65. Therefore, in order to reduce the drive load on the first wiring portion 61a when the movable portion 20b moves in the X direction, a slit portion 61s is provided in a part of the first wiring portion 61a that can move in accordance with the movement of the movable portion 20b. The width of the first wiring portion 61a including the slit portion 61s is defined as a first width W1 (FIG. 11(c)).

[0062] Next, the second imaging FPC 62 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0063] The second imaging FPC 62 (third wiring member) is composed of a second wiring portion 62a, a third connection portion 62b, and a fourth connection portion 62c, and has a power supply wiring electrically connected from the third connection portion 62b to the fourth connection portion 62c via the second wiring portion 62a. The second imaging FPC 62 is connected to the imaging element 11 at the third connection portion 62b, and is connected to the control board 70 at the fourth connection portion 62c. In addition to the power supply wiring, the second imaging FPC 62 also has a ground wiring and wiring necessary for the imaging element 11, etc.

[0064] The second wiring portion 62a extends downward from the third connection portion 62b parallel to the first straight portion 61d of the first wiring portion 61a, then curves rearward, passes through the first opening 30a of the cover 30, and extends upward. The second wiring portion 62a overlaps the first wiring portion 61a at a fourth straight portion 62f (described later) along the way and is fixed to the first wiring portion 61a and the cover 30 at the second mounting portion 66 with double-sided tape or the like. The second wiring portion 62a then curves rearward and connects to the fourth connection portion 62c. Here, the portion from the third connection portion 62b to the first curve is referred to as the third straight portion 62d (first parallel straight portion), the first curved portion is referred to as the second curved portion 62e (another curved portion), and the end of the second curved portion 62e is referred to as the fourth straight portion 62f (second parallel straight portion).

[0065] The second wiring portion 62a is attached to the fixed portion of the first imaging FPC 61 and the cover 30, which are components of the fixed portion 20a, at a second attachment portion 66 located midway between the first imaging FPC 61 and the cover 30. Therefore, the second wiring portion 62a is configured to be movable in accordance with the movement of the movable portion 20b in the range from the third connection portion 62b to the second attachment portion 66. Therefore, in order to reduce the drive load on the second wiring portion 62a when the movable portion 20b moves in the X direction, a slit portion 62s is provided in a portion of the second wiring portion 62a that can move in accordance with the movement of the movable portion 20b. The width of the second wiring portion 62a including the slit portion 62s is defined as a second width W2 (FIG. 11(c)).

[0066] Next, the third imaging FPC 63 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0067] The third imaging FPC 63 (second wiring member) is composed of a third wiring portion 63a, a fifth connection portion 63b, and a sixth connection portion 63c, and a high-speed transmission wiring is formed that is electrically connected from the fifth connection portion 63b to the sixth connection portion 63c via the third wiring portion 63a. For example, a differential transmission wiring is adopted as this high-speed transmission wiring. The imaging device 10 transmits imaging signals between the imaging element 11 and the control board 70 using this high-speed transmission wiring, thereby supporting high-speed transmission of imaging signals. The third imaging FPC 63 is connected to the imaging element 11 at the fifth connection portion 63b and to the control board 70 at the sixth connection portion 63c. In addition to the high-speed transmission wiring, the third imaging FPC 63 also has ground wiring and wiring necessary for the imaging element 11.

[0068] The third wiring portion 63a extends upward from the fifth connection portion 63b, then curves rearward, passes through the second opening 30b of the cover 30, and extends downward. The third imaging FPC 63 is fixed to the cover 30 at a third attachment portion 67 with double-sided tape or the like. The third wiring portion 63a then curves rearward and connects to the sixth connection portion 63c. Here, the portion from the fifth connection portion 63b to the first curve is referred to as a fifth straight portion 63d, the portion that first curves is referred to as a third curved portion 63e, and the end of the third curved portion 63e is referred to as a sixth straight portion 63f.

[0069] The third wiring portion 63a is attached to the cover 30, which is a component of the fixed portion 20a, at a third attachment portion 67 located midway, so that the third wiring portion 63a is configured to be movable in association with the movement of the movable portion 20b within the range from the fifth connection portion 63b to the third attachment portion 67. Therefore, in order to reduce the drive load on the third wiring portion 63a when the movable portion 20b moves in the X direction, a slit portion 63s is provided in a portion of the third wiring portion 63a that can move in association with the movement of the movable portion 20b. The width of the third wiring portion 63a including the slit portion 63s is defined as a third width W3 (FIG. 11(c)).

[0070] Next, the relationship between the third imaging FPC 63 and the first imaging FPC 61 will be described.

[0071] 11(a), the third imaging FPC 63 and the first imaging FPC 61 are arranged so as to partially overlap when viewed from the rear. Here, as shown in FIG. 11(c), the amount of overlap in the X direction between the third imaging FPC 63 and the first imaging FPC 61 when viewed from the arrow EE shown in FIG. 11(a) is represented as W4.

[0072] If the total width of the imaging FPC 60 is WF1, it is expressed as follows. WF1=W1+W2+W3 On the other hand, if the total width of the imaging FPC 60 when viewed from the rear is W6, it is expressed as follows. W6 = W1 + W2 + W3 - W4

[0073] As described above, by partially overlapping the third imaging FPC 63 and the first imaging FPC 61, the total width W6 of the imaging FPC when viewed from the rear can be made smaller by W4 than the total width WF1 of the imaging FPC.

[0074] 11(b), the first imaging FPC 61 and the third imaging FPC 63 are spaced apart by Z1 in the optical axis direction (Z direction). In this way, the first imaging FPC 61 and the third imaging FPC 63 partially overlap when viewed from the back, but are spaced apart in the optical axis direction, thereby preventing interference between the first imaging FPC 61 and the third imaging FPC 63 when the movable part 20b is driven.

[0075] With the above-described configuration, even if the total width (WF1) of the imaging FPC 60 is large, the imaging FPC 60 can be routed within the limited space inside the imaging device 10. This makes it possible to prevent the image stabilization unit 20 and the imaging device 10 from becoming larger.

[0076] Next, the heat dissipation path of the image sensor 11 will be described with reference to Figs. 8, 12, and 13. Fig. 12 shows a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of the components of the heat dissipation path of the image sensor 11. Fig. 12(a) shows the projection view, and Fig. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow FF shown in Fig. 12(a). Fig. 13 shows a projection view and a cross-sectional view in the optical axis direction of the image stabilization unit 20. Fig. 13(a) shows the projection view, and Fig. 13(b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the arrow GG shown in Fig. 13(a).

[0077] Heat generated by the imaging element 11 is transferred to the imaging element substrate 11b, which is fixed in place by a die bonding process. The imaging element substrate 11b is a rigid substrate and has an area that overlaps with the imaging element holding member 31, and transfers heat to the imaging element holding member 31 through surface contact in that area.

[0078] Magnesium die-cast, aluminum die-cast, or the like is used for the imaging element holding member 31. The imaging element holding member 31 transfers heat transferred from the imaging element board 11b to the connecting member 38 at three fixing points secured by screws 45 (FIG. 5).

[0079] An aluminum alloy or the like is used for the connecting member 38. A heat transfer member 80 is connected to the connecting member 38, and a support member 43 is connected to the heat transfer member 80.

[0080] 10(b), the support member 43 is a member connected to the base member 13c, and the connecting member 38 is movable relative to the support member 43. That is, one end of the heat transfer member 80 is connected to the connecting member 38 of the movable part 20b, and the other end is connected to the support member 43 of the fixed part 20a. Details of the heat transfer member 80 will be described later.

[0081] As a result, heat generated by the imaging element 11 and transferred from the imaging element holding member 31 to the connecting member 38 is transferred to the support member 43 via the heat transfer member 80. The heat transferred to the support member 43 is transferred to the base member 13c, and is finally dissipated from the base member 13c to the outside air. An aluminum alloy or the like is used for the support member 43, and magnesium die-casting, aluminum die-casting, or the like is used for the base member 13c.

[0082] Next, the routing of the heat transfer member 80 will be described.

[0083] 12(a), heat transfer member 80 is composed of first heat transfer member 81 and second heat transfer member 82 that are provided at positions facing each other when viewed in the Z direction. Note that in Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the directions will be described relative to the projection plane. For example, the -Z direction is rear, the +X direction is left, and the -X direction is right.

[0084] The first heat transfer member 81 (second connecting member) is composed of a first mounting portion 81a, a first heat transfer portion 81b, and a second mounting portion 81c. The first heat transfer member 81 is fixed to the connecting member 38 at the first mounting portion 81a with double-sided tape or the like. The first heat transfer member 81 extends rightward from the first mounting portion 81a, then curves rearward, passes through the first opening 30a of the cover 30 as shown in FIG. 13(a), and then passes through the opening 43a of the support member 43 as shown in FIG. 12(a), extends leftward, and connects to the second mounting portion 81c. Here, the section from the first mounting portion 81a to the first curve is referred to as a first straight portion 81d (third straight portion), the first curved portion is referred to as a first curved portion 81e (second curved portion), and the end of the first curved portion 81e is referred to as a second straight portion 81f (fourth straight portion). The first heat transfer member 81 is fixed to the support member 43 at the second attachment portion 81c with double-sided tape or the like.

[0085] The second heat transfer member 82 (third connecting member) is composed of a third mounting portion 82a, a second heat transfer portion 82b, and a fourth mounting portion 82c. The second heat transfer member 82 is fixed to the connecting member 38 at the third mounting portion 82a with double-sided tape or the like. The second heat transfer member 82 extends leftward from the third mounting portion 82a, then curves rearward, passes through the first opening 30a of the cover 30 as shown in FIG. 13(a), and then passes through the notch 43b of the support member 43 as shown in FIG. 12(a), then extends rightward and connects to the fourth mounting portion 82c. Here, the portion from the third mounting portion 82a to the first curve is referred to as a third straight portion 82d, the portion that first curves is referred to as a second curved portion 82e, and the end of the second curved portion 82e is referred to as a fourth straight portion 82f. The second heat transfer member 82 is fixed to the support member 43 at the fourth attachment portion 82c with double-sided tape or the like.

[0086] One end of the heat transfer member 80 is connected to the connecting member 38 of the movable part 20b, and the other end is connected to the support member 43 of the fixed part 20a. This allows the heat transfer member 80 to move as the movable part 20b moves. Therefore, to avoid hindering the movement of the movable part 20b, a flexible sheet member with a thickness of approximately 0.1 mm, such as a graphite sheet, is used for the heat transfer member 80. The graphite sheet has a higher thermal conductivity than the connecting member 38, allowing the heat transfer member 80 to efficiently transfer heat from the connecting member 38 to the support member 43. Furthermore, to reduce the driving load on the heat transfer member 80 when the movable part 20b moves in the Y direction, the first heat transfer member 81 is provided with a slit 81s, and the second heat transfer member 82 is provided with a slit 82s.

[0087] Next, the routing of the imaging FPC 60 (first imaging FPC 61, second imaging FPC 62, third imaging FPC 63) and the heat transfer member 80 (first heat transfer member 81, second heat transfer member 82) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0088] As described above, the first imaging FPC 61 and the second imaging FPC 62 extend downward (first extension direction) from the imaging element 11 so as to move away from the optical axis 12a, then curve rearward and extend upward. The third imaging FPC 63 extends upward (third extension direction) from the imaging element 11 so as to move away from the optical axis 12a, then curve rearward and extend downward. The first heat transfer member 81 extends rightward from the connecting member 38 so as to move away from the optical axis 12a (second extension direction perpendicular to the first extension direction), then curve rearward and extend leftward. The second heat transfer member 82 extends leftward from the connecting member 38 so as to move away from the optical axis 12a, then curve rearward and extend rightward.

[0089] 11(a), the imaging FPC 60 is arranged so that the width direction of the wiring portions is the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the imaging element 11, and is routed in the lateral direction (Y direction) of the imaging element 11. On the other hand, the heat transfer member 80 is routed in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the imaging element 11. By arranging the imaging FPCs 60 so that the width direction of the wiring portions is the longitudinal direction of the imaging element 11 in this way, it is possible to arrange an FPC with a wider total width of the wiring portions as the imaging FPC 60, compared to when the imaging FPCs 60 are arranged so that the width direction of the wiring portions is the lateral direction of the imaging element 11.

[0090] Furthermore, the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80 are configured so that, starting from the mounting portion of the movable portion 20b, they extend outward (away from the optical axis 12a) in four different directions (up, down, left, and right), then curve rearward and extend inward. Now, with reference to FIG. 13(b), attention will be focused on the first imaging FPC 61 and the first heat transfer member 81. When viewed in the optical axis direction (Z direction), the first straight portion 61d of the first imaging FPC 61, the first straight portion 81d of the first heat transfer member 81, the second straight portion 61f of the first imaging FPC 61, and the second straight portion 81f of the first heat transfer member 81 are alternately arranged in this order. On the other hand, when viewed from the back, the first straight portion 61d of the first imaging FPC 61, the first straight portion 81d of the first heat transfer member 81, the second straight portion 61f of the first imaging FPC 61, and the second straight portion 81f of the first heat transfer member 81 are in a relationship in which at least a portion of each overlap.

[0091] Next, attention will be paid to the second imaging FPC 62 and the second heat transfer member 82. When viewed in the optical axis direction, the third straight portion 62d of the second imaging FPC 62, the third straight portion 82d of the second heat transfer member 82, the fourth straight portion 62f of the second imaging FPC 62, and the fourth straight portion 82f of the second heat transfer member 82 are alternately arranged in this order. On the other hand, when viewed from the rear, the third straight portion 62d of the second imaging FPC 62, the third straight portion 82d of the second heat transfer member 82, the fourth straight portion 62f of the second imaging FPC 62, and the fourth straight portion 82f of the second heat transfer member 82 are overlapping with each other.

[0092] As described above, by arranging the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80, the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80 can be routed compactly in a limited space by increasing the radius of curvature of the curved portions, thereby reducing the load during movement. This makes it possible to suppress an increase in the size of the image stabilization unit 20 and the imaging device 10, while simultaneously achieving an increase in the number of signals that accompanies the high performance of the imaging element 11 and improved heat dissipation performance. Furthermore, by routing the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80 in different directions, it is also possible to distribute the drive load on the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80 when the movable part 20b moves.

[0093] In this embodiment, the imaging FPC 60 and the heat transfer member 80 are arranged alternately when viewed in the optical axis direction, but this is not necessarily the case. For example, the first straight portion 61d of the first imaging FPC 61, the first straight portion 81d of the first heat transfer member 81, the second straight portion 81f of the first heat transfer member 81, and the second straight portion 61f of the first imaging FPC 61 may be arranged in this order.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first heat transfer member 81 and the second heat transfer member 82 are described as separate members, but they may be an integrated part extending laterally from the connecting member as a starting point.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the imaging FPC 60 (the first imaging FPC 61, the second imaging FPC 62, and the third imaging FPC 63) is configured to run vertically and the heat transfer member 80 (the first heat transfer member 81 and the second heat transfer member 82) is configured to run horizontally. However, this is not necessarily limited to this. The imaging FPC 60 may be configured horizontally and the heat transfer member 80 may be configured vertically, or the imaging FPC 60 may be configured leftward / upward and the heat transfer member 80 may be configured rightward / downward. In other words, it is sufficient that at least three connecting members (the first imaging FPC 61, the third imaging FPC 63, and the heat transfer member 80) connecting the movable part 20b and the fixed part 20a extend from the movable part 20b in different directions perpendicular to the optical axis (Z direction) and away from the optical axis. This allows the driving load of the movable part 20b to be distributed.

[0096] The present invention has been described in detail above based on its preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms within the scope of the invention that do not deviate from the gist of the invention are also included in the present invention.

[0097] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration. (Configuration 1) An imaging device comprising: a first unit; a second unit in which an imaging element is arranged so as to be movable relative to the first unit within a predetermined range in a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of an imaging optical system; and at least three connecting members connecting the first unit and the second unit, wherein each of the at least three connecting members has a straight portion extending from the second unit in a different extension direction perpendicular to the optical axis and away from the optical axis, and a curved portion connected to one end of the straight portion and curved in the direction of the optical axis, and is connected to the first unit via the curved portion. (Configuration 2) The imaging device described in Configuration 1, characterized in that the at least three connecting members include a first connecting member whose straight portion extends in a first extension direction of the different extension directions, and a second connecting member whose straight portion extends in a second extension direction of the different extension directions that is perpendicular to the first extension direction, and the first connecting member and the second connecting member at least partially overlap when viewed from the direction of the optical axis. (Configuration 3) The imaging device described in Configuration 2, characterized in that the first connecting member includes a first straight portion as the straight portion, a first curved portion as the curved portion, and a second straight portion that is connected to the other end of the first curved portion and is perpendicular to the optical axis, and the second connecting member includes a third straight portion as the straight portion, a second curved portion as the curved portion, and a fourth straight portion that is connected to the other end of the second curved portion and is perpendicular to the optical axis, and when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the first straight portion, the third straight portion, the second straight portion, and the fourth straight portion are arranged in this order. (Configuration 4) The imaging device described in Configuration 2, characterized in that the first connecting member includes a first straight portion as the straight portion, a first curved portion as the curved portion, and a second straight portion connected to the other end of the first curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, and the second connecting member includes a third straight portion as the straight portion, a second curved portion as the curved portion, and a fourth straight portion connected to the other end of the second curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, and when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the first straight portion, the third straight portion, the fourth straight portion, and the second straight portion are arranged in this order. (Configuration 5) An imaging device described in any one of configurations 2 to 4, characterized in that the first unit includes a control board, and the first connecting member is a wiring member that electrically connects the imaging element and the control board. (Configuration 6) An imaging device described in any one of configurations 2 to 5, characterized in that the second unit is thermally connected to the imaging element and includes a movable member arranged opposite the imaging element, and the second connecting member is a heat transfer member that thermally connects the movable member and the first unit. (Structure 7) An imaging device described in any one of structures 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least three connecting members include a first wiring member that electrically connects the second unit and the first unit, and a heat transfer member that thermally connects the second unit and the first unit, the imaging element has an approximately rectangular shape when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the straight portion of the first wiring member extends in a first extension direction that is the short side direction of the imaging element, and the straight portion of the heat transfer member extends in a second extension direction that is the long side direction of the imaging element. (Configuration 8) The imaging device described in Configuration 7, characterized in that the at least three connecting members further include another heat transfer member as a third connecting member that electrically connects the second unit and the first unit, and the heat transfer member and the other heat transfer member are arranged in opposing positions when viewed from the direction of the optical axis. (Configuration 9) The imaging device according to configuration 8, wherein the other heat transfer member has a slit formed in at least a part of a portion that moves in accordance with the movement of the second unit. (Configuration 10) The imaging device according to configuration 8 or 9, wherein the heat transfer member and the other heat transfer member are configured as an integrated part. (Configuration 11) An imaging device described in any one of configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that each of the at least three connecting members has a slit portion formed in at least a portion of the part that moves in accordance with the movement of the second unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 10. Imaging device 11 Image sensor 20a Fixed part 20b Moving part 60 Imaging FPC 61 First imaging FPC 61e First curved section 62 Second imaging FPC 62e Second curve 63 Third imaging FPC 63e Third Curve 80 Heat transfer material 81 first heat transfer member 81e First curve 82 Second heat transfer member 82e Second curve 83 Third heat transfer member 83e Third bend

Claims

1. A first unit; a second unit in which an image sensor is disposed so as to be movable relative to the first unit within a predetermined range within a plane perpendicular to the optical axis of the image pickup optical system; at least three connecting members connecting the first unit and the second unit; Each of the at least three connecting members is a linear portion extending from the second unit in a different direction perpendicular to the optical axis and away from the optical axis; a curved portion whose one end is connected to the linear portion and curved in the direction of the optical axis, An imaging device, characterized in that it is connected to the first unit via the bending portion.

2. The at least three connecting members are: a first connecting member, the linear portion of which extends in a first extension direction of the different extension directions; the linear portion includes a second connecting member extending in a second extension direction orthogonal to the first extension direction among the different extension directions, 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting member and the second connecting member at least partially overlap when viewed in the direction of the optical axis.

3. the first connecting member includes a first straight portion as the straight portion, a first curved portion as the curved portion, and a second straight portion connected to the other end of the first curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, the second connecting member includes a third straight portion as the straight portion, a second curved portion as the curved portion, and a fourth straight portion connected to the other end of the second curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the first straight line portion, the third straight line portion, the second straight line portion, and the fourth straight line portion are arranged in this order.

4. the first connecting member includes a first straight portion as the straight portion, a first curved portion as the curved portion, and a second straight portion connected to the other end of the first curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, the second connecting member includes a third straight portion as the straight portion, a second curved portion as the curved portion, and a fourth straight portion connected to the other end of the second curved portion and perpendicular to the optical axis, 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein, when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the first straight line portion, the third straight line portion, the fourth straight line portion, and the second straight line portion are arranged in this order.

5. the first unit includes a control board; 3. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the first connecting member is a wiring member that electrically connects the imaging element and the control board.

6. the second unit includes a movable member that is thermally connected to the imaging element and that is disposed opposite the imaging element; 3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second connecting member is a heat transfer member that thermally connects the movable member and the first unit.

7. The at least three connecting members are: a first wiring member that electrically connects the second unit and the first unit; a heat transfer member that thermally connects the second unit and the first unit, the imaging element has a substantially rectangular shape when viewed from the direction of the optical axis, the linear portion of the first wiring member extends in a first extension direction which is a short-side direction of the imaging element; 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the linear portion of the heat transfer member extends in a second extension direction that is a longitudinal direction of the imaging element.

8. the at least three connection members further include another heat transfer member as a third connection member that electrically connects the second unit and the first unit; 8. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein the heat transfer member and the other heat transfer member are provided at positions facing each other when viewed from the direction of the optical axis.

9. 9. The imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the other heat transfer member has a slit formed in at least a part of a portion that moves in accordance with the movement of the second unit.

10. 10. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein the heat transfer member and the other heat transfer member are configured as an integral part.

11. 2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein each of the at least three connecting members has a slit formed in at least a part of a portion that moves in accordance with the movement of the second unit.

Images