Optical apparatus and camera system

Abstract

To provide an optical apparatus capable of correctly recognizing a photographing state.SOLUTION: An interchangeable lens 101 includes a zoom group 110 movable in a direction along an optical axis, a rotational operation ring 103 capable of moving the zoom group 110 in the direction along the optical axis by rotating around the optical axis OA, and a zoom detection unit 106 configured to detect information on movement of the zoom group 110, wherein the zoom detection unit 106 has a first detection range D1 and a second detection range D2, the rotation operation ring 103 is provided with a first rotation range R1, a second rotation range R2, and a transition range R1 connecting the first rotation range R2 and the second rotation range R3, and a rotation position of the rotation operation ring 103 corresponding to a switching position D1 between the first detection range D2 and the second detection range 106c is in the transition range R3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical instrument and a camera system. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, optical devices such as digital cameras, video cameras, and interchangeable lenses have been required to be more portable, and the adoption of a retractable mechanism has led to a reduction in size, especially when not in use. A retractable mechanism is a mechanism that reduces the distance between lens groups when transitioning from a state in which photography is possible to a retracted state in which photography is restricted, thereby shortening the overall length of the optical device along its optical axis.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an interchangeable lens equipped with a detection device that generates an output related to position detection by combining the outputs of a first potentiometer that detects a first range and a second potentiometer that detects a second range different from the first range. The detection device described in Patent Document 1 makes it possible to increase the detection resolution in a limited range. Therefore, if such a detection device is used in an optical instrument that employs a retractable mechanism, it is thought that it will be possible to increase the resolution in a limited range, especially in the range where photography is possible. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-117457 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, if the position at which the resolution of the detection device is switched is misaligned between the range in which photography is possible and the retractable range in which photography is restricted, there is a concern that the camera may mistakenly recognize that photography has transitioned to a restricted state even though photography is actually possible. This could result in the user being unable to continue photography unintentionally. Conversely, if the camera mistakenly recognizes that photography has transitioned to a permitted state even though photography is restricted, there is a concern that this could have a negative impact on the photographic results.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an optical device that is capable of correctly recognizing the photographing state. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the present invention provides an optical device comprising an optical element that can move in a direction along an optical axis, a rotating member that can move the optical element in a direction along the optical axis by rotating around the optical axis, and a detection unit that detects information related to the movement of the optical element, wherein the detection range of the detection unit includes a first detection range and a second detection range, the rotating member has a first rotation range, a second rotation range, and a third rotation range that connects the first rotation range and the second rotation range, and the rotation position of the rotating member that corresponds to the switching position between the first detection range and the second detection range is in the third rotation range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical device that is capable of correctly recognizing the photographing state. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1A is a front perspective view of a camera system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the same. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a camera system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3]FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the interchangeable lens 101 of the embodiment at the wide-angle end WE during shooting. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an interchangeable lens 101 of an embodiment at the telephoto end TE during shooting. [Figure 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of the interchangeable lens 101 of the embodiment at the retracted end RE when not photographing. [Figure 6] 1A is a perspective view of the rear group unit 130 of the embodiment, and FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a zoom detection unit 106 according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 1A is a side cross-sectional view of a biasing mechanism 140 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. [Figure 9] 10A is a schematic diagram of the position of the pin member 141 and the shooting state in the embodiment, and FIG. 10B is an output characteristic diagram of the zoom detection unit 106. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The same reference numerals throughout the drawings indicate the same or corresponding parts. In this embodiment, an interchangeable lens 101 will be described as an example of an optical device, but various modifications and changes can be made to other optical devices, such as an integrated lens camera, within the scope of the present invention.

[0011] 1A and 1B show the appearance of a camera system including an interchangeable lens 101 according to an embodiment of the present invention and a digital camera (hereinafter referred to as a camera body 1) to which the interchangeable lens 101 is detachably attached. FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views showing the front side (subject side) and the rear side (imaging surface side), respectively. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, the direction in which the optical axis OA of the imaging optical system housed in the interchangeable lens 101 extends is defined as the X-axis direction (optical axis direction), and the directions perpendicular to this are defined as the Z-axis direction (horizontal direction) and the Y-axis direction (vertical direction). Hereinafter, the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction will be collectively referred to as the Z / Y-axis direction. Furthermore, the rotation direction around the Z-axis will be defined as the pitch direction, and the rotation direction around the Y-axis will be defined as the yaw direction. The pitch direction and yaw direction (hereinafter collectively referred to as the pitch / yaw direction) are directions of rotation around two mutually perpendicular axes, the Z-axis and the Y-axis.

[0012] The camera body 1 shown in FIG. 1(A) has a grip section 2 on the left side when viewed from the front (right side when viewed from the back) that allows the user to hold the camera body 1 with their hand. A power operation section 3 is also located on the top surface of the camera body 1. When the user turns on the power operation section 3 while the camera body 1 is in the power-off state, power is supplied to the camera body 1, which then powers on the camera body 1, executes a computer program for processing the origin detection of the focus group, and enters a shooting standby state. When the user turns off the power operation section 3 while the camera body 1 is in the power-on state, the camera body 1 powers off.

[0013] Furthermore, the top surface of the camera body 1 is provided with a mode dial 4, a release button 5, and an accessory shoe 6. The user can switch between shooting modes by rotating the mode dial 4. The shooting modes include a manual still image shooting mode in which the user can freely set shooting conditions such as shutter speed and aperture value, an auto still image shooting mode in which the appropriate exposure is automatically obtained, and a video shooting mode for shooting videos. The user can also instruct shooting preparation operations such as autofocus and auto exposure control by half-pressing the release button 5, and can instruct shooting by fully pressing it. An accessory (camera accessory) such as an external flash or other lighting or light-emitting device can be detachably attached to the accessory shoe 6.

[0014] The interchangeable lens 101 has a lens mount 102 that can be mechanically and electrically connected to a camera mount 7 provided on the camera body 1. The annular lens mount 102 and the camera mount 7 are detachable via a bayonet coupling (not shown). There are no restrictions on the combination of the interchangeable lens 101 and the camera body 1 as a camera system, as long as they use a common mount shape. The camera system is made up of the camera body 1 having the camera mount 7, and the interchangeable lens 101, which will be described in detail below, having the lens mount 102.

[0015] The interchangeable lens 101 houses an imaging optical system that forms an image of a subject by focusing light from the subject. A rotary operation ring 103 (rotating member) is provided on the outer periphery of the interchangeable lens 101 and can be rotated around an optical axis OA by a user. When the user rotates the rotary operation ring 103, a zoom group 110 (optical element) constituting the imaging optical system (described below) moves to a predetermined usage position corresponding to the angle of the rotary operation ring 103, within a range from the wide-angle end WE to the telephoto end TE. In other words, by rotating the rotary operation ring 103 around the optical axis OA, the zoom group 110 can be moved in a direction along the optical axis OA. This allows the user to capture images at a desired angle of view. Furthermore, as will be described in detail later, in the present invention, a retractable end RE, where image capture is further restricted, is provided after the rotary operation ring 103 is rotated from the telephoto end TE to the wide-angle end WE. The retractable end RE is the position at which the interchangeable lens 101 is fully retracted.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1B, the rear surface of the camera body 1 is provided with a rear operation unit 8 and a display unit 9. The rear operation unit 8 includes multiple buttons and dials assigned with various functions. When the camera body 1 is powered on and the still image or video shooting mode is set, the display unit 9 displays a through image of the subject captured by the image sensor 16 (described later). The display unit 9 also displays shooting parameters indicating shooting conditions such as shutter speed and aperture value. The user can change the settings of the shooting parameters by operating the rear operation unit 8 while viewing the display. The rear operation unit 8 includes a playback button for instructing playback of a recorded captured image. When the user operates the playback button, the captured image is played back and displayed on the display unit 9. The display unit 9 may be a touch panel type having the same functions as the rear operation unit 8.

[0017] 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical and optical configuration of a camera system made up of an interchangeable lens 101 and a camera body 1. The camera body 1 has a power supply unit 10 that supplies power to the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101, and an operation unit 11 that includes the power operation unit 3, mode dial 4, release button 5, rear operation unit 8, and the touch panel function of the display unit 9. In this embodiment, the entire system of the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101 is controlled by a camera control unit 12 provided in the camera body 1 and a lens control unit 104 provided in the interchangeable lens 101, which operate in coordination with each other. Note that the camera control unit 12 and the lens control unit 104 each have a built-in computer for controlling the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101, respectively, and the entire system of the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101 is controlled by operating in coordination with each other.

[0018] The camera control unit 12 reads and executes a computer program stored in the storage unit 13. In doing so, the camera control unit 12 communicates various control signals, data, and the like with the lens control unit 104 via a communication terminal of an electrical contact 105 provided on the lens mount 102. The electrical contact 105 includes a power terminal that supplies power from the power supply unit 10 described above to the interchangeable lens 101.

[0019] The imaging optical system of the interchangeable lens 101 is connected to a rotary operation ring 103 and includes a zoom group 110 that moves along the optical axis OA to change the angle of view, and an aperture group 121 that adjusts the amount of light. The imaging optical system also includes a lens vibration isolation group 113 that includes a shift lens as an image stabilization element, and reduces image blur by moving (shifting) in the Z / Y axis directions perpendicular to the optical axis OA. The imaging optical system also includes a focus group 116 that includes a focus lens 116a (see FIG. 6B) that moves in the optical axis direction to adjust the focus. The interchangeable lens 101 also includes an aperture driver 122 that drives the aperture group 121, an image stabilization driver 123 that moves the lens vibration isolation group 113, and a focus driver 131 that moves the focus group 116.

[0020] The camera body 1 has a shutter unit 14, a shutter driver 15, an image sensor 16, an image processor 17, and the camera controller 12 described above. The shutter unit 14 controls the amount of light that is formed by the imaging optical system in the interchangeable lens 101 and that is exposed to the image sensor 16. The image sensor 16 photoelectrically converts the subject image formed by the imaging optical system and outputs an image signal. The image processor 17 performs various image processes on the image signal and then generates an image signal. The display 9 displays the image signal (through image) output from the image processor 17, displays the shooting parameters as described above, and plays back and displays shot images stored in the memory unit 13 or a recording medium (not shown).

[0021] The camera control unit 12 controls the focus driving unit 131 in response to a shooting preparation operation (such as half-pressing the release button 5) on the operation unit 11. For example, when an autofocus operation is instructed, the focus detection unit 18 determines the focus state of the subject image formed by the image sensor 16 based on the image signal generated by the image processing unit 17, generates a focus signal, and sends it to the camera control unit 12. At the same time, the focus driving unit 131 sends information about the current position of the focus group 116 to the camera control unit 12. The camera control unit 12 compares the focus state of the subject image with the current position of the focus group 116, calculates a focus driving amount from the amount of deviation, and sends it to the lens control unit 104. The lens control unit 104 then moves the focus group 116 to a target position in the optical axis direction via the focus driving unit 131, thereby correcting the focus deviation of the subject image.

[0022] The focus driver 131 includes a focus motor 131a (see FIG. 6B) that functions as an actuator, and a photointerrupter that detects the origin position of the focus group 116. Generally, a stepping motor, which is a type of actuator, is often used as the focus motor 131a. Note that a DC motor with an encoder, an ultrasonic motor, a servo motor, or the like may also be used as the focus motor 131a. Furthermore, while a photointerrupter directly receives light emitted from a light-emitting unit at a light-receiving unit, a photoreflector that receives light reflected from a reflective surface or a brush that contacts a conductor pattern and electrically detects a signal may alternatively be used as the detector.

[0023] The camera control unit 12 controls the driving of the aperture group 121 and the shutter unit 14 via the aperture drive unit 122 and the shutter drive unit 15 in accordance with the setting values ​​of the aperture value and shutter speed received from the operation unit 11. For example, when an automatic exposure control operation is instructed, the camera control unit 12 receives a luminance signal generated by the image processing unit 17 and performs a photometric calculation. Based on the result of this photometric calculation, the camera control unit 12 controls the aperture drive unit 122 in accordance with a shooting instruction operation on the operation unit 11 (such as a full press of the release button 5). At the same time, the camera control unit 12 controls the driving of the shutter unit 14 via the shutter drive unit 15 and performs an exposure process by the image sensor 16.

[0024] The camera body 1 has a pitch shake detection unit 19 and a yaw shake detection unit 20 as shake detection means capable of detecting image shake caused by the user's hand shake, etc. The pitch shake detection unit 19 and the yaw shake detection unit 20 each use an angular velocity sensor (vibration gyro) and an angular acceleration sensor to detect image shake in the pitch direction (direction of rotation around the Z axis) and the yaw direction (direction of rotation around the Y axis), and output a shake signal.

[0025] The camera control unit 12 calculates the shift position of the lens vibration isolation group 113 in the Y-axis direction using the shake signal from the pitch shake detection unit 19. Similarly, the camera control unit 12 calculates the shift position of the lens vibration isolation group 113 in the Z-axis direction using the shake signal from the yaw shake detection unit 20. Then, the camera control unit 12 moves the lens vibration isolation group 113 to a target position in the Z-axis / Y-axis direction via the vibration isolation drive unit 123 in accordance with the calculated shift position in the pitch / yaw direction, thereby reducing image shake during exposure or when a through-image is displayed.

[0026] As will be described in more detail below, the interchangeable lens 101 has a rotary operation ring 103 for changing the angle of view of the imaging optical system, and a zoom detection unit 106 (detection unit) that detects the angle of the rotary operation ring 103. The zoom detection unit 106 detects the angle of the rotary operation ring 103 operated by the user as an absolute value, and is configured using, for example, a resistive linear potentiometer. Information about the focal length detected by the zoom detection unit 106 (information about the movement of the optical element) is reflected in various controls by the camera control unit 12 described above, and is recorded together with the captured image in the memory unit 13 or a recording medium (not shown).

[0027] The lens control unit 104 stores data on target positions of the focus group 116, which focus on each focal position from infinity to the closest distance at each focal length from the wide-angle end WE to the telephoto end TE. Drive of the focus group 116 is controlled based on this data and angle information of the rotary operation ring 103 detected by the zoom detection unit 106. When the focal length is changed continuously from the wide-angle end WE to the telephoto end TE, the focus group 116 is controlled to move along different trajectories depending on the focus state. In other words, the movement trajectory of the focus group 116 differs when zooming while the focus is set to infinity and when zooming while the focus is set to the closest distance.

[0028] Generally, as the F-number increases or the focal length at the telephoto end TE increases, the depth of field becomes shallower, making it difficult to tolerate focus shifts when zooming. Furthermore, when the focal length at the wide-angle end WE is particularly short, optical distortion may be electronically corrected using image processing by the camera control unit 12. In such relatively sophisticated, high-performance interchangeable lenses, the angle information of the rotary operation ring 103 must be detected with high precision, making the resolution of the zoom detection unit 106 extremely important.

[0029] Next, the positional relationships of the main components of the interchangeable lens 101 will be described using Figures 3, 4, and 5. Figures 3, 4, and 5 are cross-sectional views on the XY plane including the optical axis OA, and the center line shown here substantially coincides with the optical axis OA determined by the imaging optical system, and therefore will be hereinafter referred to as the optical axis OA. Figure 3 shows the positional relationships of the components at the wide-angle end WE on the short focal length side of the zoom during shooting, and Figure 4 shows the positional relationships of the components at the telephoto end TE on the long focal length side of the zoom during shooting. Furthermore, Figure 5 shows the positional relationships of the components at the retracted end RE when not shooting, when the overall length is shortened most in the optical axis direction.

[0030] 3 and 4 show the imaging optical system of the interchangeable lens 101 in a position where imaging is possible (a state where imaging is possible). On the other hand, Fig. 5 shows the imaging optical system of the interchangeable lens 101 in a stored state (a state where it is in a retracted position) when not imaging.

[0031] The retractable end RE shown in FIG. 5 is located further beyond the wide-angle end WE shown in FIG. 3. Rotating the rotary operation ring 103 in one direction sequentially transitions from the retractable end RE shown in FIG. 5 to the wide-angle end WE shown in FIG. 3, and from the wide-angle end WE shown in FIG. 3 to the telephoto end TE shown in FIG. 4. In this embodiment, a state in which the imaging optical system is capable of capturing images is referred to as the imaging state, and a state in which the imaging optical system is in the retracted position is referred to as the retracted state (non-capturing state). Note that the imaging state means that the camera functions, including the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101, can operate normally at any time. Restricted imaging means that some of the camera functions, including the camera body 1 and the interchangeable lens 101, do not operate normally. For example, while the imaging act itself (e.g., pressing the shutter to capture a subject) is possible when the imaging optical system is in the retracted position, there may be cases in which the captured image is out of focus, resulting in a partially or entirely blurred image.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , this embodiment employs a seven-group configuration as an example of an imaging optical system. The zoom group 110, which is configured to be movable in the optical axis direction, moves to different predetermined usage positions at the wide-angle end WE and the telephoto end TE, respectively, to image light from a subject onto the image sensor 16. The zoom group 110 is configured with a first zoom group 111, a second zoom group 112, a lens vibration reduction group 113, a fourth zoom group 114, a fifth zoom group 115, a focus group 116, a seventh zoom group 117, and an aperture group 121. However, the lens vibration reduction group 113 functions as the third zoom group, and the focus group 116 functions as the sixth zoom group. Note that the present invention does not limit the configuration of the imaging optical system. For example, the lens vibration reduction group 113 or the focus group 116 may function as another zoom group. Furthermore, some lens groups may be fixed rather than movable.

[0033] The rectilinear guide barrel 107 is a fixed component that is fixed to the lens mount 102 via a fixed barrel 109 (fixed member) described later. Bayonet claws (not shown) are arranged at equal intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the rectilinear guide barrel 107. Meanwhile, a circumferential groove (not shown) is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the cam barrel 108. Furthermore, the cam barrel 108 is connected to the rotary operation ring 103. When the user rotates the rotary operation ring 103, the bayonet claws engage with the circumferential groove, restricting movement of the cam barrel 108 in the optical axis direction and causing it to rotate about the optical axis OA. In other words, the fixed barrel 109 holds the rotary operation ring 103 rotatably around the optical axis.

[0034] Furthermore, linear guide grooves that restrict movement of the zoom group 110 in the rotational direction and guide linear movement in the optical axis direction are formed at equal intervals in the linear guide barrel 107. Cam grooves that correspond to the zoom group 110 and have trajectories at different angles in the rotational direction are also formed at equal intervals in the cam barrel 108. Meanwhile, the zoom group 110 is provided with multiple rollers, each of which fits into a corresponding linear guide groove and cam groove. When the user rotates the rotary operation ring 103, the cam barrel 108 rotates, and the rollers, due to their engagement with the linear guide grooves and cam grooves, move the zoom group 110 forward and backward in the optical axis direction while restricting movement in the rotational direction.

[0035] The interchangeable lens 101 of this embodiment has a retractable mechanism that allows the zoom group 110 to be retracted further toward the rear side (image capture surface side) when not taking pictures. At the wide-angle end WE shown in Fig. 3, the distance between the second zoom group 112 and the lens vibration reduction group 113 (third zoom group) is wide, and at the telephoto end TE shown in Fig. 4, the distance between the first zoom group 111 and the second zoom group 112 is wide. The retractable mechanism narrows these distances and moves them to retracted positions where they are close to each other, thereby shortening the overall length in the optical axis direction.

[0036] As shown in Fig. 5, at the retracted end RE when not taking pictures, the zoom groups 110 move to a retracted position where they are close to each other. This shortens the overall length of the interchangeable lens 101, thereby improving the portability of the interchangeable lens 101 and the camera body 1. From this state, for example, when the user rotates the rotary operation ring 103 to the wide-angle end WE, the zoom groups 110 extend to the front side (subject side) and move to a predetermined use position, thereby reaching the state where photography is possible, as shown in Fig. 3. Note that this type of retractable mechanism is a well-known technology that has been adopted in many optical devices, so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0037] 6(A) and (B) show the components (components) constituting the rear group unit 130 of this embodiment from the front side (subject side). Fig. 6(A) is a perspective view of the components in a state where photography is possible, and Fig. 6(B) is an exploded perspective view showing some of the components shown in Fig. 6(A) disassembled.

[0038] The rear group unit 130 has a movable barrel 133, and the focus group 116 is housed inside the movable barrel 133. The focus group 116 is made up of a focus lens 116a and a focus lens holding frame 116b that holds the focus lens 116a. The seventh zoom group 117 is made up of a seventh group lens 117a and a seventh group lens holding frame 117b that holds the seventh group lens 117a.

[0039] The focus lens holding frame 116b has a sleeve portion 116c and a vibration prevention portion 116d. The sleeve portion 116c is slidably fitted into a main guide 134 arranged substantially parallel to the optical axis OA, and the vibration prevention portion 116d is slidably fitted into a sub-guide 135 arranged substantially parallel to the main guide 134. The axial ends of the main guide 134 and the sub-guide 135 are supported by the movable barrel 133 and a cap member (not shown), respectively. In this way, the focus group 116 is positioned in the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction by the main guide 134 and the sub-guide 135, and can move smoothly in the optical axis direction (X-axis direction).

[0040] A focus drive unit 131 having a focus motor 131a and a feed screw 131b (meshing portion) is fixed to the movable barrel 133. A rack 132 meshes with the feed screw 131b. The rotation shaft portion of the rack 132 engages with a fitting hole in the focus lens holding frame 116b, and is only allowed to rotate around the fitting hole. Even if the feed screw 131b vibrates slightly due to variations in processing accuracy, the rack 132 can stably convert the rotational driving force of the focus motor 131a into propulsion force in the optical axis direction.

[0041] Three movable rollers 136 are provided at equally spaced intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the movable barrel 133. As described above, the movable rollers 136 are fitted into the corresponding linear guide grooves and cam grooves. When zooming, for example, from the wide-angle end WE to the telephoto end TE, the cam barrel 108 rotates, and the movable barrel 133 moves linearly in the optical axis direction together with components such as the focus group 116.

[0042] The zoom detection unit 106, which is one of the features of the present invention, will be described in detail below with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the front side (subject side) of the zoom detection unit 106.

[0043] The zoom detection unit 106 is composed of a movable part 106a including a brush made of sheet metal, and a fixed part 106b with a circuit pattern formed on its surface. The circuit pattern includes a conductor pattern, a resistor pattern, and a wiring pattern. The conductor pattern is made of a conductive material such as gold or silver, with carbon laminated on top of it as a protective film. On the other hand, the resistor pattern is made of only carbon. The electrical resistance per unit length in the circumferential direction is greater for the resistor pattern than for the conductor pattern. The wiring pattern is connected to the lens control unit 104 via a flexible circuit board.

[0044] The fixed portion 106b has a conductor pattern, a resistor pattern, and a wiring pattern formed in parallel along the longitudinal direction, and the brush of the movable portion 106a slides between the conductor pattern and the resistor pattern. A voltage is applied to the other end of the conductor pattern, and one end of the resistor pattern is grounded.

[0045] The fixed portion 106b is fixed to the fixed barrel 109, and the movable portion 106a is connected to the rotary operation ring 103 by a connecting member (not shown). Because the movable portion 106a moves in conjunction with the rotary operation ring 103, the interchangeable lens 101 moves beyond the range from the telephoto end TE to the wide-angle end WE, which are in the shooting state, to the retracted end RE, which is in the non-shooting state. In this embodiment, the fixed portion 106b is fixed to the fixed barrel 109, but the movable portion 106a may also be configured to be fixed to the fixed barrel 109.

[0046] The interchangeable lens 101 of this embodiment has a biasing mechanism 140 that gives the user a clicking sensation during zooming, and the mechanism for giving the clicking sensation will be described below. Fig. 8(A) is a side cross-sectional view of the biasing mechanism 140, and Fig. 8(B) is a bottom cross-sectional view seen from the center of the optical axis. Both Fig. 8(A) and Fig. 8(B) are in a state where photography is possible, and show the relative positional relationship of the biasing mechanism 140 near the shooting end.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 8(B), the biasing mechanism 140 is made up of the fixed barrel 109, a pin member 141 (engagement member), an inclined portion 103a that is part of the rotary operation ring 103, an exterior ring 143, and a biasing member 142. The rotary operation ring 103 is shown schematically as moving in the Y direction relative to the pin member 141. However, in reality, the rotary operation ring 103 does not move parallel to the Y direction, but rather moves rotationally around the optical axis OA. The movement of the pin member 141 in the Y direction is restricted by the fixed barrel 109, but the pin member 141 is held by the fixed barrel 109 so as to be movable linearly in the X direction parallel to the optical axis OA.

[0048] A tip portion 141b is integrally formed with the pin member 141, and a tapered portion 141a is formed on a side portion adjacent to the tip portion 141b. The biasing member 142 is housed in a cylindrical recess of the pin member 141, and receives a reaction force from the exterior ring 143 to bias the pin member 141 toward the rotary operation ring 103 in the X direction. In other words, the biasing mechanism 140 is configured to bias the rotary operation ring 103 in the X direction, which is different from the rotation direction of the rotary operation ring 103. In this embodiment, the biasing member 142 is, as an example, a compression coil spring, and is arranged on the opposite side of the pin member 141 from the tip portion 141b. However, the configuration and shape of the biasing member 142 are not important as long as it can bias the pin member 141 in the X direction.

[0049] On the inner peripheral surface of the rotary operation ring 103, a first flat portion 103b and a second flat portion 103c, which are planes perpendicular to the optical axis, an inclined portion 103a inclined with respect to the plane perpendicular to the optical axis, and a third flat portion 103d (see FIG. 9(A)) are integrally formed. As shown in FIG. 8(A), when the interchangeable lens 101 is in the shooting state, the tip portion 141b of the pin member 141 abuts against an abutment portion 109a formed on the fixed barrel 109. Therefore, the biasing force of the biasing member 142 is not applied to the rotary operation ring 103.

[0050] When the user rotates the rotary operation ring 103 in the Y direction, the inclined portion 103a of the rotary operation ring 103 and the tapered portion 141a of the pin member 141 come into contact and engage, stopping the rotation of the rotary operation ring 103. When the rotary operation ring 103 is further rotated in the Y direction, the inclined portion 103a moves the pin member 141 in the −X direction, and the tip portion 141b of the pin member 141 climbs up the inclined portion 103a. At this time, the biasing member 142 is compressed, and the resulting operation reaction force F is transmitted to the rotary operation ring 103 via the inclined portion 103a, creating a load resistance against the rotation. Because this load resistance acts in a limited range up to the point where the rotation ring 103 climbs up the inclined portion 103a, a local change in rotational torque occurs, which the user perceives as a clicking sensation. Furthermore, the local change in rotational torque makes it difficult for the rotary operation ring 103 to stop within that range.

[0051] In the biasing mechanism 140, by appropriately changing the angles of the inclined portion 103a and the tapered portion 141a and the biasing force of the biasing member 142, it is possible to set a suitable clicking sensation for the rotation operation of the rotary operation ring 103. This clicking sensation allows the user to recognize that a transition (change) has occurred from a shooting state in which shooting is possible to a non-shooting state in which shooting is not possible.

[0052] 9A and 9B, the relationship between the timing at which the biasing mechanism 140 generates the operation reaction force F and the output switching position 106c of the zoom detection unit 106 will be described. Fig. 9A is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the position of the pin member 141 and the shooting state, and Fig. 9B is an output characteristics diagram showing the relationship between the amount of movement M of the movable unit 106a of the zoom detection unit 106 and the output change Output.

[0053] 9(A), the horizontal axis represents the rotational phase (Y) of the rotary operation ring 103, and the relative positional relationship of the components during zooming is schematically shown, expressing that the pin member 141 moves relative to the rotary operation ring 103. However, it is the rotary operation ring 103 that actually rotates, and the position of the pin member 141 in the Y direction is fixed by the fixed barrel 109.

[0054] The rotary operation ring 103 is formed with a first flat portion 103b, which is in the shooting state, and a second flat portion 103c, which is in the non-shooting state, on a plane perpendicular to the optical axis OA, and an inclined portion 103a connecting them. The rotation range of the rotary operation ring 103 when the pin member 141 slides against the first flat portion 103b, which is located between the telephoto end TE and the wide-angle end WE, is defined as a first rotation range R1, and the interchangeable lens 101 can be changed from the telephoto end TE to the wide-angle end WE. The rotation range in which the pin member 141 slides against the inclined portion 103a starting from the wide-angle end WE and the rotary operation ring 103 is rotated to the inclined end SE so that the pin member 141 rides entirely over the inclined portion 103a is defined as a transition range, and at this time the interchangeable lens 101 is in the non-shooting state. The rotation range in which the pin member 141 slides against the second flat surface 103c located between the inclined end SE and the retracted end RE is defined as a second rotation range R2, and by rotating the rotary operation ring 103, the interchangeable lens 101 gradually retracts while remaining in a non-photographic state. When the pin member 141 abuts against and engages with the third flat surface 103d at the retracted end RE, rotation of the rotary operation ring 103 is stopped, and the interchangeable lens 101 is completely retracted, reaching the retracted position at the third flat surface 103d. The transition range is a third rotation range R3 that connects the first rotation range R1 and the second rotation range R2.

[0055] When the rotary operation ring 103 is rotated between the telephoto end TE and the retracted end RE, a local change in rotation torque occurs in the transition range where the pin member 141 is positioned on the inclined portion 103a, as described above. The sign of this torque change is determined by the tilt direction of the inclined portion 103a. When the inclined portion 103a is tilted in a direction in which X and Y are proportional, as shown in FIG. 9A, the rotary operation ring 103 receives an operation reaction force F from the pin member 141 within the transition range. The operation reaction force F is resolved into an X-direction component Fx and a Y-direction component Fy (force) depending on the inclination angle of the inclined portion 103a. The component force Fy then acts to rotate the rotary operation ring 103 in the -Y direction. As a result, when transitioning from the non-photographing state to the photographing state, the rotary operation ring 103 receives the component force Fy in a direction that assists rotation within the transition range, enabling a smooth transition to the photographing state. Furthermore, if the rotary operation ring 103 hits the wide-angle end WE during shooting, it receives a force in a direction that inhibits rotation, preventing an unintended transition to a non-shooting state. That is, when the rotary operation ring 103 rotates within the first rotation range R1, the interchangeable lens 101 is in a shooting state, and when the rotary operation ring 103 rotates within the transition range, the rotary operation ring 103 receives a component force Fy that tends to rotate the interchangeable lens 101 into the first rotation range R1. At this time, the component force Fy that tends to rotate the interchangeable lens 101 into the first rotation range R1 is generated by the biasing mechanism 140 within the transition range. More specifically, the tapered portion 141a of the tip 141b of the pin member 141 comes into contact with the inclined portion 103a, which is part of the rotary operation ring 103, generating the component force Fy that tends to rotate the interchangeable lens 101 into the first rotation range R1.

[0056] In order for the pin member 141 to overcome the inclined portion 103a, the rotary operation ring 103 must be rotated with a greater torque. If the inclined portion 103a were inclined in the opposite direction, the rotational load would prevent a smooth transition from the non-photographing state to the photographing state, and there is a risk that an unexpected movement could cause the lens to transition to the non-photographing state while photographing at the wide-angle end WE. The inclination direction of the inclined portion 103a presented in this embodiment is optimal for allowing the user to photograph without stress. In this embodiment, the wide-angle end WE is the position where the photographing state and the non-photographing state switch, and the other end in the photographing state is the telephoto end TE, but depending on the optical design, the wide-angle end WE and the telephoto end TE may be reversed.

[0057] The transition range is set from the wide-angle end WE toward the non-photographing state because it is difficult to stop the rotary operation ring 103 within the transition range, and if the transition range is set from the wide-angle end WE toward the photographing state, the range that can be used for photography would be narrowed.

[0058] FIG. 9B is a schematic graph showing the movement amount M of the movable part 106a of the zoom detector 106 on the horizontal axis and the output change (Output) (%) of the zoom detector 106 on the vertical axis. The zoom detector 106 is a sensor that detects movement information based on a relative change in the output of the zoom detector 106 within its detection range. As described above, the movement amount M of the zoom group 110 is calculated from the rotation amount of the rotary operation ring 103 based on the output of the zoom detector 106. However, it is not necessary to detect the position of the zoom group 110 in a non-photographing state. However, because the movable part 106a moves in conjunction with the rotary operation ring 103, it also detects the position within a non-photographing state where detection is not required. Therefore, the zoom detector 106 has a first detection range D1 in which the output changes depending on the movement amount M of the movable part 106a, and a second detection range D2 in which the output does not change regardless of the movement amount M of the movable part 106a. In other words, the rate of change of the output of the zoom detector 106 is different between the first detection range D1 and the second detection range D2. Furthermore, the rate of change of output in first detection range D1 is higher than the rate of change of output in second detection range D2. By varying the rate of change of output depending on the rotation range of rotary operation ring 103, it becomes possible to detect the amount of rotation of rotary operation ring 103 in first detection range D1 more precisely than when the output is changed over the entire range. In this embodiment, the output is set not to change in second detection range D2, but it may also be set so that the output changes.

[0059] The rotational position of the rotary operation ring 103 corresponding to the switching position 106c between the first detection range D1 and the second detection range D2 in the zoom detection unit 106 is set within a transition range in which the rotational torque of the rotary operation ring 103 changes locally. That is, the first detection range D1 and the second detection range D2 switch in the third rotation range R3. As described above, when the rotary operation ring 103 rotates in the transition range, the pin member 141 is positioned at the inclined portion 103a, so that a component force Fy acts on the rotary operation ring 103, making it difficult to stop the rotation of the rotary operation ring 103, and the rotary operation ring 103 is returned to the position of the wide-angle end WE. In other words, the transition range is a range in which it is difficult to stop the rotation of the rotary operation ring 103, and in the transition range, the rotary operation ring 103 receives the component force Fy that tends to rotate the rotary operation ring 103 in a certain direction.

[0060] Each component is subject to manufacturing variations, including the outer shape of the zoom detection unit 106 and the switching position 106c. In addition, component position variations occur during assembly. Ideally, the switching position between the shooting and non-shooting states and the switching position 106c between the first detection range D1 and the second detection range D2 would be perfectly aligned, but this is impossible given the variations. Taking the state of the pin member 141 in FIG. 9(B) as an example, the section from the wide-angle end WE position to the switching position 106c is the non-shooting state, but because this is a range in which the output changes, it may be erroneously recognized as the "shooting state." However, if the switching position 106c is within the transition range, it is difficult to stop the rotating operation ring 103 within that range, making it possible to transition to the desired state without stopping within the range that would cause erroneous detection.

[0061] According to this embodiment, in an optical device that switches the output of a detection device depending on the shooting state, it is possible to provide an optical device that can correctly recognize the shooting state even if the switching position of the detection device varies or shifts.

[0062] Although the present invention has been described in detail above based on preferred embodiments thereof, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various modifications within the scope of the present invention are also included. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments merely illustrate one embodiment of the present invention, and the embodiments can be combined as appropriate.

[0063] The disclosure of this embodiment includes the following configuration. (Configuration 1) an optical element movable in a direction along an optical axis; a rotating member that rotates around the optical axis to move the optical element in a direction along the optical axis; a detection unit that detects information regarding the movement of the optical element, the detection range of the detection unit includes a first detection range and a second detection range; the rotating member is provided with a first rotation range, a second rotation range, and a third rotation range connecting the first rotation range and the second rotation range, an optical device, characterized in that a rotational position of the rotating member corresponding to a switching position between the first detection range and the second detection range is within the third rotational range; (Configuration 2) 2. The optical device of configuration 1, wherein the third rotation range is a range in which the rotation of the rotating member is difficult to stop. (Configuration 3) 3. The optical device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the rotating member receives a force that tends to rotate the rotating member in a certain direction within the third rotation range. (Configuration 4) the optical device is capable of transitioning from a non-photographing state to a photographing state; When the rotary member rotates within the first rotation range, the optical element is in the photographing state, 4. The optical device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein when the rotational member rotates within the third rotation range, the rotational member receives a force that tends to rotate the rotational member within the first rotation range. (Configuration 5) 5. The optical apparatus of configuration 4, wherein when the rotary member rotates within the third rotation range, the optical element is in the non-photographing state. (Configuration 6) the detection unit is a sensor that detects information about the movement based on a relative change in an output of the detection unit within the detection range, 6. The optical device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the rate of change of the output differs between the first detection range and the second detection range. (Configuration 7) 7. The optical device of configuration 6, wherein the rate of change of the output in the first detection range is higher than the rate of change of the output in the second detection range. (Configuration 8) a biasing mechanism that biases the rotary member in a direction different from the rotation direction of the rotary member, 5. The optical device of configuration 4, wherein the force tending to rotate the optical device into the first rotation range is generated by the biasing mechanism in the third rotation range. (Configuration 9) a fixing member that holds the rotary member rotatably around the optical axis; the biasing mechanism includes an engaging member movably held by the fixed member and a biasing member that biases the engaging member toward the rotating member, The optical device of configuration 8, wherein the force tending to rotate the rotating member into the first rotation range is generated by the engaging member abutting against an inclined portion inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis provided on the rotating member. (Configuration 10) The optical device of configuration 9, characterized in that, when in the photographing state, the tip of the engaging member abuts against an abutment portion formed on the fixed member, and the biasing force of the biasing member is not applied to the rotating member. (Configuration 11) The optical device of configuration 10, characterized in that when the rotating member is further rotated around the optical axis, the tip of the engaging member rides up the inclined portion, the inclined portion moves the engaging member, the biasing member is compressed, generating a reaction force and giving a clicking sensation to the user. (Configuration 12) 12. The optical device according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, wherein the optical device is an interchangeable lens that employs a retractable mechanism, and the interchangeable lens retracts in the second rotation range. (Configuration 13) 13. A camera system comprising: a camera body having a camera mount; and an optical device according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, having a lens mount connectable to the camera mount. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 1 camera body 7. Camera Mount 16 image sensor 101 Interchangeable lenses (optical equipment) 102 lens mount 103 Rotating operation ring (rotating member) 103a Slope 103b First plane portion (plane perpendicular to the optical axis) 103c Second plane portion (plane perpendicular to the optical axis) 103d Third Plane 106 Zoom detection unit (detection unit) 106c Switching position 109 Fixed tube (fixed member) 109a Contact part 110 Zoom group (optical elements) 140 Biasing mechanism 141 Pin member (engagement member) 141a Tapered portion 141b Tip 142 biasing member D1 First detection range D2 Second detection range F Operation reaction force (reaction force) Fy component force (force) OA optical axis R1 First rotation range R2 Second rotation range R3 Transition range (third rotation range)

Claims

1. an optical element movable in a direction along an optical axis; a rotating member that rotates around the optical axis to move the optical element in a direction along the optical axis; a detection unit that detects information regarding the movement of the optical element, the detection range of the detection unit includes a first detection range and a second detection range; the rotating member is provided with a first rotation range, a second rotation range, and a third rotation range connecting the first rotation range and the second rotation range, an optical device, characterized in that a rotational position of the rotating member corresponding to a switching position between the first detection range and the second detection range is within the third rotational range;

2. 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the third rotation range is a range in which the rotation of the rotary member is difficult to stop.

3. 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the rotary member receives a force that tends to rotate the rotary member in a certain direction within the third rotation range.

4. the optical device is capable of transitioning from a non-photographing state to a photographing state; When the rotary member rotates within the first rotation range, the optical element is in the photographing state, 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein when the rotating member rotates in the third rotation range, the rotating member receives a force urging the rotating member to rotate in the first rotation range.

5. 5. The optical apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the optical element is in the non-photographing state when the rotary member rotates within the third rotation range.

6. the detection unit is a sensor that detects information about the movement based on a relative change in an output of the detection unit within the detection range, 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the rate of change of the output differs between the first detection range and the second detection range.

7. 7. The optical device according to claim 6, wherein the rate of change of the output in the first detection range is higher than the rate of change of the output in the second detection range.

8. a biasing mechanism that biases the rotary member in a direction different from the rotation direction of the rotary member, 5. The optical device according to claim 4, wherein the force urging the optical device to rotate in the first rotation range is generated by the biasing mechanism in the third rotation range.

9. a fixing member that holds the rotary member rotatably around the optical axis; the biasing mechanism includes an engaging member movably held by the fixed member and a biasing member that biases the engaging member toward the rotating member, 9. The optical device according to claim 8, wherein the force tending to rotate the optical device into the first rotation range is generated by the engagement member abutting against an inclined portion of the rotating member that is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis.

10. 10. The optical device according to claim 9, wherein, when in the photographing state, the tip of the engaging member abuts against an abutment portion formed on the fixed member, and the biasing force of the biasing member is not applied to the rotating member.

11. The optical device according to claim 10, characterized in that when the rotating member is further rotated around the optical axis, the tip of the engaging member rides up the inclined portion, the inclined portion moves the engaging member, the biasing member is compressed, generating a reaction force and giving the user a clicking sensation.

12. 2. The optical device according to claim 1, wherein the optical device is an interchangeable lens that employs a retractable mechanism, and the interchangeable lens retracts in the second rotation range.

13. A camera system comprising: a camera body having a camera mount; and the optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, having a lens mount connectable to the camera mount.

Images