Imaging device

Abstract

This facilitates the suppression of misalignment of the optical axis and changes in focus. [Solution] The base plate 210 is fixed to the main body 201 of the device, and the image sensor plate 402 of the imaging unit 120 is positioned in the direction of the imaging optical axis relative to the base plate 210 and holds the image sensor 121. The drive motors 150 and 151 drive the imaging unit 120, causing the second spherical part (410a, etc.) of the imaging unit 120 to move relative to the first spherical part (310a, etc.) of the base plate 210 while in contact with it, thereby tilting the imaging unit 120.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in imaging devices such as digital cameras, in-vehicle cameras, and surveillance cameras, a configuration has been proposed in which an image pickup element is tilted (tilt-driven) to perform so-called panning shooting.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration in which an image pickup element holder has a single-axis rotation axis and the image pickup element is tilted around the rotation axis. Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which an imaging unit fixed to a single-axis rotation axis is tilted in a first direction and a second direction with respect to a plane perpendicular to the optical axis, enabling tilting in two horizontal and vertical axes.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, in the conventional technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, tilting driving can only be performed on a single axis. Further, in the conventional technology disclosed in Patent Document 2, although tilting is possible around two axes, there is a concern that the rotation center does not necessarily coincide with the imaging optical axis or the imaging plane, resulting in a deviation of the imaging optical axis and a change in focus.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to facilitate suppression of deviation of the imaging optical axis and focus change.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To achieve the above objective, the imaging apparatus of the present invention is characterized by comprising: an apparatus body; a base member having a first spherical portion and fixed to the apparatus body; a holding member having a second spherical portion and arranged in the direction of the imaging optical axis with respect to the base member and holding an image sensor; and a driving means that drives the holding member to move the second spherical portion relative to the first spherical portion in a state of contact with the first spherical portion, thereby tilting the holding member. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to easily suppress misalignment of the optical axis and changes in focus. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the imaging device. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows the main electrical configuration of the imaging device system. [Figure 3] This is a rear perspective view showing the camera body with the outer cover unit removed. [Figure 4] This is a rear perspective view showing the camera body with the outer cover unit removed. [Figure 5] This is a rear-view perspective of the camera body after disassembly. [Figure 6] This is a front exploded perspective view of the imaging unit and base plate. [Figure 7] This is a rear exploded perspective view of the imaging unit and base plate. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of the imaging unit and base plate in the YZ section. [Figure 9] This is a bottom view of the imaging unit and base plate. [Figure 10] This is a view of the imaging unit and base plate from the +Z side. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the base plate viewed from the +Z side, and a schematic diagram illustrating the rotation center and positional relationships when viewed from the Z direction. [Figure 12]It is a partial exploded perspective view of the camera body. [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view of the imaging unit and the base plate by the YZ cross-section. [Figure 14] It is a top view of the imaging unit and the base plate. [Figure 15] It is a view of the base plate seen from the +Z side and a schematic diagram showing the rotational center and each positional relationship seen from the Z direction.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] (First Embodiment) FIGS. 1(a) and (b) are external perspective views of an imaging device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Hereinafter, the directions of each part will be referred to based on the X, Y, and Z coordinate axes shown in each figure. For convenience here, in the direction parallel to the optical axis 200, the subject side is referred to as the front. Therefore, for example, in FIGS. 1(a) and (b), the +Y direction is upward and the +Z direction is forward. The +X direction is to the right when viewed from the subject side. FIG. 1(a) is a front perspective view, and FIG. 1(b) is a rear perspective view.

[0013] A lens mount portion 103 is provided on the front surface of the camera body 100 as an imaging device. By mounting a photographing lens unit 104 (see FIG. 2) on the lens mount portion 103, an imaging device system is configured. The photographing lens unit 104 is an interchangeable lens barrel, and in FIGS. 1(a) and (b), the state where the photographing lens unit 104 is removed is shown.

[0014] The camera body 100 has a grip portion 101 for the photographer to stably hold the camera body 100. On the upper part of the grip portion 101, a shutter button 102, which is a switch for starting imaging, is provided. An opening 190 is provided inside the lens mount portion 103.

[0015] The mount contact 105 electrically connects the camera body 100 and the shooting lens unit 104, supplying power to the shooting lens unit 104 and communicating lens control and lens data via electrical signals. When replacing the shooting lens unit 104, the user releases the lock by pressing the lens lock release button 106.

[0016] The power switch 107 is used to turn the camera on or off. The main electronic dial 108 and the sub-electronic dial 119 are rotary operating components that can be rotated clockwise and counterclockwise, respectively. By rotating these, various settings such as aperture and shutter speed are changed.

[0017] The mode selection dial 109 is an operation unit for switching shooting modes. It is used to switch between various modes such as shutter-priority shooting mode, aperture-priority shooting mode, and video recording mode. The SET button 110 is a push button and is mainly used for confirming selections.

[0018] The LCD monitor 111 displays various settings screens for the camera body 100, captured images, and live view images. The electronic viewfinder 112 is an eyepiece viewfinder that displays various settings screens for the camera body 100, captured images, and live view images.

[0019] The multifunction button 113 is a push button. Users can assign various shooting-related settings to the multifunction button 113 as they wish. The display panel 114 displays the status of various camera settings, such as the shooting mode and ISO sensitivity. The display panel 114 also displays information when the camera body 100 is powered off.

[0020] The accessory shoe 115 has an accessory contact 116, allowing various accessories such as external strobes and microphones to be attached. The media slot cover 173 is openable and closable, and when open, the user can insert and remove an external recording medium 148 (see Figure 2), such as an SD card, into the internal media slot (not shown).

[0021] Next, the electrical configuration and operation will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the main electrical configuration of the imaging device system. The optical axis 200 is the imaging optical axis of the imaging lens unit 104 and is parallel to the Z direction.

[0022] The MPU130 is a small central processing unit built into the camera body 100. The MPU130 is connected to a time measurement unit 131, a shutter drive unit 132, a switch sense unit 133, a power supply unit 134, a battery check unit 135, a video signal processing unit 136, a tilt mechanism drive unit 137, and a piezoelectric element drive unit 145. The MPU130 is responsible for controlling the operation of the entire camera body 100, processing input information and issuing instructions and controls to each element. The MPU130 has an EEPROM that can store time information from the time measurement unit 131 and various setting information.

[0023] Furthermore, the MPU 130 communicates with the lens control unit 138 built into the shooting lens unit 104 via the mount contact 105. This allows the MPU 130 to control the operation of the focus lens 141 and the electromagnetically driven aperture 142 via the AF drive unit 139 and the aperture drive unit 140. Although only one focus lens 141 is shown in Figure 2, the shooting lens unit 104 is actually composed of multiple lens groups.

[0024] The AF drive unit 139 drives the focus lens 141 in the direction of the optical axis 200, for example, by a connected stepping motor (not shown). The MPU 130 calculates the amount of focus lens drive according to the amount of defocus detected using the focus signal read from the image sensor 121, and transmits a focus command including the amount of focus lens drive to the lens control unit 138. Upon receiving the focus command, the lens control unit 138 controls the drive of the focus lens 141 through the AF drive unit 139. This enables autofocus (AF).

[0025] An aperture actuator, such as a stepping motor (not shown), is connected to the aperture drive unit 140. The aperture drive unit 140 drives multiple aperture blades (not shown) that form the aperture opening in the electromagnetically driven aperture 142. By driving the multiple aperture blades, the size (diameter) of the aperture opening changes, and the amount of light is adjusted.

[0026] The MPU 130 calculates the aperture drive amount from the luminance signal read from the image sensor 121 and transmits an aperture command including this aperture drive amount to the lens control unit 138. In other words, the MPU 130 communicates with the lens control unit 138 to control the electromagnetically driven aperture 142. Upon receiving the aperture command, the lens control unit 138 controls the drive of the electromagnetically driven aperture 142 through the aperture drive unit 140. This automatically sets an appropriate aperture value.

[0027] The mechanical focal-plane shutter 149 is driven by the shutter drive unit 132. During imaging, from the moment the photographer presses the shutter button 102 (Figure 1), the front curtain shutter (not shown) moves to open the shutter, and according to the desired exposure time, the rear curtain shutter (not shown) moves to close the shutter, thereby controlling the exposure time to the image sensor 121. In addition, in the focal-plane shutter 149, the front curtain shutter (not shown) is closed when the power is turned off, preventing dust from entering the camera body 100 through the opening 190 (Figure 1).

[0028] The first drive motor 150 and the second drive motor 151 are actuators for tilting the imaging unit 120 around the vertical axis (Y-axis) and horizontal axis (X-axis). The drive motors 150 and 151 are composed of stepping motors. The drive motors 150 and 151 are controlled and driven by the tilting mechanism drive unit 137. The detailed configuration of the tilting drive will be described later with reference to Figure 3 and subsequent figures.

[0029] In this embodiment, when referring to rotation around the vertical axis (Y-axis) and rotation around the horizontal axis (X-axis) collectively or without distinction, both types of rotation are referred to as "tilting." However, as is generally understood, rotation around the vertical axis corresponds to panning, and rotation around the horizontal axis corresponds to tilting.

[0030] The imaging unit 120 mainly consists of an optical low-pass filter 122, an optical low-pass filter holding member 123, a piezoelectric element 124, and an image sensor 121, all integrated into a single unit. The image sensor 121 converts the subject image into photoelectric data. In this embodiment, a CMOS sensor is used, but there are various other forms such as CCD and CID types, and any form of imaging device may be adopted.

[0031] The optical low-pass filter 122, positioned in front of the image sensor 121, is a single birefringent plate made of quartz, and its shape is rectangular. The piezoelectric element 124 is a single-plate piezoelectric element (piezo element) that is excited by the piezoelectric element drive unit 145, which receives instructions from the MPU 130, and is configured to transmit its vibrations to the optical low-pass filter 122. This vibration can shake off fine dust particles that have adhered to the optical low-pass filter 122.

[0032] The video signal processing unit 136 is responsible for all aspects of image processing, including filtering and data compression of electrical signals obtained from the image sensor 121. Image data for monitor display from the video signal processing unit 136 is displayed on the liquid crystal monitor 111 and electronic viewfinder 112 via the liquid crystal drive unit 144. The video signal processing unit 136 can also save image data to the buffer memory 147 via the memory controller 146, according to instructions from the MPU 130. Furthermore, the video signal processing unit 136 can perform image data compression processing such as JPEG. When continuous shooting is performed, such as in continuous shooting, the video signal processing unit 136 can temporarily store the image data in the buffer memory 147 and sequentially read out the unprocessed image data via the memory controller 146. This allows the video signal processing unit 136 to sequentially perform image processing and compression processing regardless of the speed of the incoming image data.

[0033] The memory controller 146 has the function of recording image data to an external recording medium 148 and the function of reading image data stored in the external recording medium 148. As the external recording medium 148, an SD card or CF card that can be attached to and removed from the camera body 100 is used.

[0034] The switch sense unit 133 transmits input signals to the MPU 130 according to the operating state of each switch. Switch 102a (SW1) is turned ON by the first stroke (half-press) of the shutter button 102. Switch 102b (SW2) is turned ON by the second stroke (full-press) of the shutter button 102. When switch 102b (SW2) is turned ON, an instruction to start shooting is sent to the MPU 130. The switch sense unit 133 is also connected to the main electronic dial 108, mode selection dial 109, power switch (SW) 107, SET button 110, multifunction button 113, etc.

[0035] The MPU 130 communicates information via the accessory contact 116 through the accessory communication control unit 118 to utilize the functions of an accessory unit (not shown). The power supply unit 134 distributes and supplies power from the battery 143 to each element of the camera. A battery check unit 135 is also connected to the battery 143, and information such as the remaining charge of the battery 143 obtained by the battery check unit 135 is transmitted to the MPU 130.

[0036] The MPU130 and other circuit ICs mentioned above, as well as the buffer memory 147 and external recording media 148, are arranged and mounted on the main board 180.

[0037] Figures 3 and 4 are rear perspective views showing the camera body 100 with the outer cover unit removed. In Figure 4, the main circuit board 180 is not shown.

[0038] The main body 201 is the main part of the camera body 100 excluding the exterior cover unit, and includes the main structure (chassis) that holds the internal structure of the camera body 100. The exterior cover unit and the lens mount section 103 (Figure 1(a)) are attached to the main body 201.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the base plate 210 (base member) of the tilting mechanism drive unit 137 (Figure 2) is attached to the main body 201 of the device. The main circuit board 180 is attached to the main body 201 behind the base plate 210. The main circuit board 180 has connectors mounted on it to which the MPU, various circuit ICs, and flexible printed circuit boards (hereinafter referred to as FPCs) from the exterior cover unit, as described in Figure 2, are connected.

[0040] As shown in Figure 4, the base plate 210 is attached to the main body of the device 201 so as to be adjustable in the direction of the imaging optical axis using three screws, triaxial adjustment screws 203a, 203b, and 203c.

[0041] The first drive motor 150 and the second drive motor 151 are mounted on the base plate 210 and are electrically connected to the main board 180 (Figure 3) by the first motor FPC (not shown) and the second drive FPC (not shown), respectively.

[0042] An image sensor 121 (Figures 2 and 6) is mounted on the front of the imaging board 220, and analog signals from the image sensor 121 are converted to digital signals. The image sensor FPC 202a and image sensor FPC 202b are flexible printed circuit boards for electrically connecting the imaging board 220 and the main board 180. Image sensor FPC 202a transmits differential signals, and image sensor FPC 202b transmits power. Connectors (not shown) for connecting image sensors FPC 202a and 202b are mounted on the back of the imaging board 220. Image sensors FPC 202a and 202b connect the connector on the back of the imaging board 220 to the connector on the front of the main board 180 (not shown).

[0043] FPCs 202a and 202b are connected to their corresponding connectors near the optical axis of the imaging substrate 220, minimizing the amount of movement of FPCs 202a and 202b when the imaging unit 120 is tilted. This makes it possible to shorten the length of FPCs 202a and 202b and miniaturize them. In addition, the repulsive force generated by the deformation of FPCs 202a and 202b between the imaging substrate 220 and the main substrate 180 can be reduced, thereby suppressing the drive power of the drive motors 150 and 151 that perform the tilting drive.

[0044] Furthermore, the FPC is divided into image sensor FPC202a and image sensor FPC202b, with FPC202a and 202b having relatively small widths in the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. Therefore, compared to a configuration where the FPC is not divided and has a large width, the repulsive force caused by the deformation of the FPC when the imaging unit 120 is tilted can be dispersed and suppressed. Details of the tilting drive of the imaging unit 120 will be described later in Figure 8 and subsequent figures.

[0045] Next, we will explain flange back adjustment with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a rear exploded perspective view of the camera body 100 shown in Figure 4, with the imaging unit 120 and base plate 210 separated from the device body 201.

[0046] The base plate 210 is fixed to the device body 201 by three-axis adjustment screws 203a, 203b, and 203c that pass through screw holes 210a, 210b, and 210c. In addition, the positioning hole 210d of the base plate 210 is fitted with the positioning boss 201d of the device body 201, and the vibration-preventing hole 210e is fitted with the vibration-preventing boss 201e. This ensures that the device body 201 and the base plate 210 are positioned so that their positions do not shift in the planar direction perpendicular to the optical axis 200.

[0047] The three-axis adjustment springs 211a, 211b, and 211c are composed of compression coil springs and are installed around the screw seats 201a, 201b, and 201c, and are compressed between them and the base plate 210. As a result, the base plate 210 is biased in the direction away from the lens mount portion 103 (-Z direction) in the direction of the optical axis 200. By tightening or loosening the three-axis adjustment screws 203a, 203b, and 203c, the flange back can be adjusted and the tilt angle of the image sensor 121 relative to the optical axis 200 can be adjusted (so-called three-axis adjustment).

[0048] Here, the imaging unit 120 is attached to the front of the base plate 210, and these are adjusted and moved together when the flange back is adjusted. With this configuration, it is possible to provide an imaging device equipped with a tilting drive mechanism in which the flange back of the imaging unit 120 is correctly adjusted.

[0049] Next, the tilting mechanism will be explained in detail with reference to Figures 6 to 9.

[0050] Figure 6 is a front exploded perspective view of the imaging unit 120 and base plate 210. Figure 7 is a rear exploded perspective view of the imaging unit 120 and base plate 210.

[0051] The imaging unit 120 (holding member) includes an imaging substrate 220 and an image sensor plate 402. The image sensor plate 402 is positioned in the optical axis direction (+Z side) relative to the base plate 210. The image sensor 121 is held in place by adhesive fixing of either the image sensor 121 or the imaging substrate 220 to the image sensor plate 402. This unitizes it into the imaging unit 120.

[0052] A first drive motor 150 and a second drive motor 151 are mounted on the base plate 210. The first drive motor 150 and the second drive motor 151 are provided with protrusions 150p and 151p, respectively, that can move back and forth in the direction of the optical axis 200 (Figure 6).

[0053] Near the optical axis 200, which is approximately the center of the base plate 210, there are first spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c that form part of a sphere. On the other hand, near the optical axis 200, which is approximately the center of the image sensor plate 402, there are also second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c that form part of a sphere (Figure 7). The first spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c correspond to the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c.

[0054] One end of a biasing spring 315, which is a tension coil spring, is locked to the base plate 210, and the other end of the biasing spring 315 is locked to a hook portion 415 on the image sensor plate 402 of the imaging unit 120.

[0055] The imaging unit 120 is biased toward the base plate 210 side (-Z side) in the optical axis direction by the tensile force of the biasing spring 315. As a result, the imaging unit 120 is always in contact with three locations: the spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c of the base plate 210, the convex portion 150p of the first drive motor, and the convex portion 151p of the second drive motor. The biasing spring 315 is an example of a biasing means that biases the imaging unit 120 in the direction in which the first spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c and the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c are in contact in the optical axis direction.

[0056] The first spherical portion is divided into three spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c. The second spherical portion is divided into three spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c. An opening 411 is formed in the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c of the image sensor plate 402 (Figure 7). The opening 411 is a through hole surrounded by the three divided spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c. The image sensor FPCs 202a and 202b connected to the image sensor 121 (Figure 4) are drawn out to the -Z side in the optical axis direction through the opening 411.

[0057] Referring to Figures 8 and 9, the operation of the imaging unit 120 in which it is driven to tilt vertically and pan horizontally will be described in detail.

[0058] Figures 8(a) to 8(c) are cross-sectional views of the imaging unit 120 and base plate 210 in the YZ section on the optical axis 200. Figure 8(a) shows the imaging unit 120 in a state where it is not tilted vertically, Figure 8(b) shows it tilted in the +θv direction, and Figure 8(c) shows it tilted in the -θv direction. The θv direction is the direction of rotation around the X axis, the +θv direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the +X side, and the -θv direction is clockwise when viewed from the +X side.

[0059] Figures 9(a) to 9(c) are bottom views of the imaging unit 120 and the base plate 210. Figure 9(a) shows the imaging unit 120 in a state where it is not tilted horizontally, Figure 9(b) shows it tilted in the +θh direction, and Figure 9(c) shows it tilted in the -θh direction. The θh direction is the direction of rotation around the Y axis, with the +θh direction being clockwise when viewed from the -Y side, and the -θh direction being counterclockwise when viewed from the -Y side.

[0060] Note that the imaging unit 120 is not tilted horizontally in Figures 8(a) to (c), and is not tilted vertically in Figures 9(a) to (c).

[0061] Let Q be a virtual sphere that encompasses the surfaces where the first spherical parts 310a, 310b, 310c and the second spherical parts 410a, 410b, 410c abut. Let P be the center of rotation of the virtual sphere Q. The +Z-side surfaces of the first spherical parts 310a, 310b, 310c are concave surfaces that are aligned with the virtual sphere Q (forming part of the virtual sphere Q). The -Z-side surfaces of the second spherical parts 410a, 410b, 410c are convex surfaces that are aligned with the virtual sphere Q (forming part of the virtual sphere Q).

[0062] The drive motors 150 and 151, acting as driving means, drive the imaging unit 120, causing the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c to move (slide) relative to the first spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c while in contact with them. This allows the imaging unit 120 to tilt. In other words, the sliding between the concave and convex surfaces causes the imaging unit 120 to rotate around the rotation center P relative to the base plate 210.

[0063] The rotation center P is configured to coincide with a point on the optical axis 200 and on the imaging surface 121a of the image sensor 121 (the intersection point of the optical axis 200 and the imaging surface 121a).

[0064] When the contact point between the spherical parts is considered as a single central point, the imaging unit 120 is biased to contact the spherical parts together and the convex parts 150p and 151p at three points. Therefore, by moving the convex parts 150p and 151p back and forth in the direction of the optical axis, the imaging unit 120 can be driven to tilt around the X axis (horizontal axis) and the Y axis (vertical axis).

[0065] Furthermore, the drive motors 150 and 151 drive the imaging unit 120 in the direction of the optical axis 200 at two different locations. Therefore, by combining the amount of drive and the direction of drive by the drive motors 150 and 151, it is possible to achieve tilting having components around both the horizontal axis and the vertical axis (tilting around two axes).

[0066] Specifically, in the state shown in Figure 8(a), the amount of rotation of the imaging unit 120 around the horizontal axis is zero. In the state shown in Figure 9(a), the amount of rotation of the imaging unit 120 around the vertical axis is zero. That is, in Figures 8(a) and 9(a), the amount of rotation of the imaging unit 120 around the horizontal axis and the vertical axis is zero, and the imaging unit 120 is not tilted relative to the base plate 210 in either the X-axis or Y-axis direction. This protruding state of the protrusions 150p and 151p is called the "origin state". The flange back of the image sensor 121 of the imaging unit 120 is adjusted in the origin state.

[0067] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 8(b) and (c), when the driving direction and amount of drive by the drive motors 150 and 151 are the same, the imaging unit 120 is tilted only around the horizontal axis. In Figure 8(b), both protrusions 150p and 151p are retracted towards the -Z side, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the +θv direction around the rotation center P1. In Figure 8(c), both protrusions 150p and 151p protrude in the +Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the -θv direction around the rotation center point P.

[0068] In Figure 9(b), the convex portion 150p protrudes in the -Z direction and the convex portion 151p is retracted in the +Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the +θh direction around the rotation center point P. In Figure 9(c), the convex portion 150p protrudes in the +Z direction and the convex portion 151p is retracted in the -Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the -θh direction around the rotation center point P.

[0069] Thus, the imaging unit 120 can tilt in either the vertical or horizontal direction, or both, around a rotation center P that substantially coincides with the intersection of the optical axis 200 and the imaging surface 121a. This tilting drive makes it possible to suppress changes in the field of view and focus.

[0070] Figure 10 shows the imaging unit 120 and base plate 210 as viewed from the +Z side. The positioning configuration of the imaging unit 120 around the Z axis (around the imaging optical axis) will be explained below.

[0071] A positioning pin 213 is positioned on the base plate 210. An elongated hole 408 is formed in the image sensor plate 402. One end of a rotation biasing spring 403 is fixed to the image sensor plate 402 with a screw 404. The other end of the rotation biasing spring 403 is engaged with the positioning pin 213.

[0072] The rotational biasing spring 403 biases the positioning pin 213 in the -R direction (counterclockwise when viewed from the +Z side), causing the positioning pin 213 to abut against the +Y end of the elongated hole 408. On the other hand, the portion of the imaging unit 120 to which the rotation biasing spring 403 is fixed by the screw 404 is rotationally biased in the R direction (clockwise when viewed from the +Z side) around the rotation center P. Therefore, the positioning pin 213 is always in contact with the +Y side end of the elongated hole 408. This determines the relative rotational position of the image sensor plate 402 and the base plate 210 around the rotation center P.

[0073] In this respect, the rotational biasing spring 403, the positioning pin 213, and the elongated hole 408 work together as restricting means to control the relative rotational position of the imaging unit 120 with respect to the base plate 210 around the optical axis 200.

[0074] Figure 11(a) is a view of the base plate 210 from the +Z side. Referring to Figures 11(a) and (b), the positional relationship between the rotation center P, the drive motors 150 and 151, and the biasing spring 315 will be explained. Viewed from the Z direction, the biased position due to the biasing spring 315 is S1, the position of the protrusion 150p of the first drive motor 150 is M11, and the position of the protrusion 151p of the second drive motor 151 is M12.

[0075] Figure 11(b) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the rotation center P and positions S1, M11, and M12 as viewed from the Z direction. The imaging range of the image sensor 121 is denoted as E. When viewed from the Z direction, if the contact point between the first spherical parts 310a, 310b, 310c and the second spherical parts 410a, 410b, 410c is considered to be a single central point, this contact point is the same as the position of the rotation center P.

[0076] As shown in Figure 11(b), the position S1 of the biasing spring 315 is located within the range inside a virtual triangle T1 whose vertices are the rotation center P, position M11, and position M12, when viewed from the Z direction. With this arrangement, the biasing in the -Z direction by the biasing spring 315 causes the imaging unit 120 to tilt while maintaining stable contact with the base plate 210 at the rotation center P and with the protrusions 150p and 151p at positions M11 and M12.

[0077] In this embodiment, the drive motors 150 and 151 tilt the imaging unit 120 relative to the base plate 210 with respect to the first spherical portion (310a, etc.) and the second spherical portion (410a, etc.) in contact. In particular, since the rotation center P is located on the imaging surface and on the imaging optical axis, it is possible to rotate the image sensor 121 around a fixed position (rotation center P). Therefore, it is possible to easily suppress misalignment of the imaging optical axis and changes in focus.

[0078] Furthermore, since the position S1 of the biasing spring 315 is located inside a virtual triangle T1 whose vertices are the rotation center P, position M11, and position M12, the tilting motion of the imaging unit 120 is stabilized.

[0079] Furthermore, since the flange back of the image sensor 121 is adjusted in the above-mentioned origin state, it becomes possible to correctly adjust the flange back in an imaging device that can tilt-drive the image sensor 121.

[0080] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment, the drive motor is located on the base plate, but in the second embodiment of the present invention, the drive motor is located on the main body of the device.

[0081] Figure 12 is a rear exploded perspective view of the camera body 100, showing the imaging unit 120 and base plate 610 separated from the main body 501 of the device.

[0082] In this embodiment, a device body 501 and a base plate 610 are provided instead of the device body 201 and base plate 210 in the first embodiment. Also, in this embodiment, a first drive motor 550, a second drive motor 551, and a biasing spring 515 are provided instead of the first drive motor 150, a second drive motor 151, and a biasing spring 315 in the first embodiment.

[0083] Furthermore, the base plate 610 is provided with first spherical portions 510a, 510b, and 510c, corresponding to the first spherical portions 310a, 310b, and 310c. The drive motors 550 and 551 are provided with protrusions 550p and 551p, corresponding to the protrusions 150p and 151p, respectively. In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as those in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0084] The base plate 610 is attached to the main body 501 of the device so that it can be adjusted in three axes. The main body 501 of the device is equipped with a first drive motor 550 and a second drive motor 551 for tilting drive.

[0085] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the operation of the imaging unit 120 in which it is driven to tilt vertically and pan horizontally will be described in detail.

[0086] Figures 13(a) to 13(c) are cross-sectional views of the imaging unit 120 and base plate 610 in the YZ section on the optical axis 200. Figure 13(a) shows the imaging unit 120 in a state where it is not tilted vertically, Figure 13(b) shows it tilted in the +θv direction, and Figure 13(c) shows it tilted in the -θv direction. The θv direction is the direction of rotation around the X axis, the +θv direction is counterclockwise when viewed from the +X side, and the -θv direction is clockwise when viewed from the +X side.

[0087] Figures 14(a) to 14(c) are top views of the imaging unit 120 and the base plate 610. Figure 14(a) shows the imaging unit 120 in a state where it is not tilted horizontally, Figure 14(b) shows it tilted in the +θh direction, and Figure 14(c) shows it tilted in the -θh direction. The θh direction is the direction of rotation around the Y axis, with the +θh direction being clockwise when viewed from the +Y side, and the -θh direction being counterclockwise when viewed from the +Y side.

[0088] Note that the imaging unit 120 is not tilted horizontally in Figures 13(a) to (c), and is not tilted vertically in Figures 14(a) to (c).

[0089] The rotation center P is defined as the center of a virtual sphere Q that encompasses the surfaces where the first spherical portions 510a, 510b, 510c and the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, 410c come into contact. The first spherical portions 510a, 510b, 510c are the same as the first spherical portions 310a, 310b, 310c (Figure 5, etc.). The imaging unit 120 rotates relative to the base plate 610 about the rotation center P.

[0090] The drive motors 550 and 551, acting as driving means, drive the imaging unit 120, causing the second spherical portions 410a, 410b, and 410c to move (slide) relative to the first spherical portions 510a, 510b, and 510c while in contact with them. This allows the imaging unit 120 to be tilted.

[0091] The rotation center P is configured to coincide with a point on the optical axis 200 and on the imaging surface 121a of the image sensor 121 (the intersection point of the optical axis 200 and the imaging surface 121a).

[0092] The imaging unit 120 is biased toward the base plate 610 side (-Z side) in the optical axis direction by the tensile force of the biasing spring 515 (Figure 12). As a result, the imaging unit 120 is biased to always be in contact with three points: the spherical parts together, and the convex parts 550p and 551p. Therefore, by moving the convex parts 550p and 551p back and forth in the optical axis direction, the imaging unit 120 can be driven to tilt around the X axis (horizontal axis) and the Y axis (vertical axis).

[0093] Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, tilting having components around both the horizontal axis and the vertical axis (tilting around two axes) can also be achieved by combining the amount of drive and the direction of drive by the drive motors 550 and 551.

[0094] In Figures 13(a) and 14(a), the rotation of the imaging unit 120 around the horizontal axis and the vertical axis is zero, and the imaging unit 120 is not tilted relative to the base plate 610 in either the X-axis or Y-axis direction. In this origin state, where the protrusions 550p and 551p are in a protruding state, the flange back of the image sensor 121 of the imaging unit 120 is adjusted.

[0095] In Figure 13(b), both protrusions 550p and 551p are retracted towards the +Z side, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the +θv direction around the rotation center P1. In Figure 13(c), both protrusions 550p and 551p protrude in the -Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the -θv direction around the rotation center point P.

[0096] In Figure 14(b), the convex portion 550p is retracted in the +Z direction, and the convex portion 551p protrudes in the -Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the +θh direction around the rotation center point P. In Figure 14(c), the convex portion 550p protrudes in the -Z direction, and the convex portion 551p is retracted in the +Z direction, and the imaging unit 120 is tilted in the -θh direction around the rotation center point P.

[0097] Thus, the imaging unit 120 can tilt in either the vertical or horizontal direction, or both, around a rotation center P that substantially coincides with the intersection of the optical axis 200 and the imaging surface 121a. This tilting drive makes it possible to suppress changes in the field of view and focus.

[0098] The positioning configuration of the imaging unit 120 around the Z-axis in this embodiment is the same as in the first embodiment (Figure 10).

[0099] Figure 15(a) shows the base plate 610 as viewed from the +Z side. The positional relationships of the rotation center P, drive motors 550 and 551, and biasing spring 515 (Figure 12) will be explained with reference to Figures 15(a) and (b).

[0100] Viewed from the Z direction, the biasing position due to the biasing spring 515 is S2, the position of the protrusion 550p is M21, and the position of the protrusion 551p is M22.

[0101] Figure 15(b) is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the rotation center P and positions S2, M21, and M22 as viewed from the Z direction. The imaging range of the image sensor 121 is denoted as E. When viewed from the Z direction, if the contact point between the first spherical parts 510a, 510b, 510c and the second spherical parts 410a, 410b, 410c is considered to be a single central point, this contact point is the same as the position of the rotation center P.

[0102] As shown in Figure 15(b), the rotation center P is positioned within the range inside a virtual triangle T2 whose vertices are positions M21, M22, and S2, when viewed from the Z direction. With this arrangement, the imaging unit 120 is tilted while maintaining stable contact with the base plate 610 at the rotation center P and with the protrusions 550p and 551p at positions M21 and M22, due to the biasing in the -Z direction by the biasing spring 515.

[0103] According to this embodiment, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved in terms of easily suppressing misalignment of the optical axis and changes in focus.

[0104] Furthermore, the same effects as in the first embodiment can be achieved in terms of correctly adjusting the flange back and ensuring stable tilting of the imaging unit 120.

[0105] In each of the above embodiments, each spherical portion is divided into three parts, but it may also be integrated without being divided. Alternatively, each spherical portion may be formed by dividing it into two or four or more parts. Alternatively, only at least one of the first spherical portion or the second spherical portion may be formed by dividing it.

[0106] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of facilitating the suppression of misalignment of the imaging optical axis and changes in focus, the rotation center P may be configured to be located on at least one of the imaging plane 121a or the imaging optical axis 200.

[0107] Furthermore, the imaging device to which the present invention is applied may be an imaging device with an integrated lens.

[0108] Although the present invention has been described in detail above based on its preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, and various forms that do not depart from the spirit of the invention are also included in the present invention. Some of the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate.

[0109] This embodiment includes the following configuration. (Composition 1) The main body of the device, A base member having a first spherical portion and fixed to the main body of the device, A holding member having a second spherical portion, arranged in line with the base member in the direction of the imaging optical axis, and holding the image sensor, An imaging apparatus characterized by having a driving means that drives the holding member to move the second spherical portion relative to the first spherical portion while keeping it in contact with the first spherical portion, thereby tilting the holding member. (Configuration 2) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 1, characterized in that the holding member rotates with respect to the base member, with the center of rotation being the center of a virtual sphere that includes the surface in contact with the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion. (Composition 3) The imaging apparatus according to configuration 2, characterized in that the rotation center is located on at least one of the imaging surface of the image sensor or on the imaging optical axis. (Composition 4) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the driving means drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations. (Composition 5) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, characterized in that it has a biasing means for biasing the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction. (Composition 6) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, characterized in that at least one of the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion is formed by dividing it into three or more sections. (Composition 7) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, further comprising a restricting means for restricting the relative rotational position of the holding member with respect to the base member around the imaging optical axis. (Composition 8) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the driving means is arranged on the base member. (Composition 9) The holding member has a biasing means that biases the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction, The driving means is arranged on the base member and drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations. The imaging apparatus according to configuration 2, characterized in that, when viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis, the biasing position by the biasing means is located inside a virtual triangle whose vertices are the rotation center and the two locations. (Composition 10) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized in that the driving means is arranged in the main body of the apparatus. (Composition 11) The holding member has a biasing means that biases the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction, The driving means is arranged in the main body of the device and drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations. The imaging apparatus according to configuration 2, characterized in that, when viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis, the rotation center is located inside a virtual triangle whose vertices are the biasing position by the biasing means and the two locations. (Composition 12) The state in which the holding member is not tilted in any direction relative to the base member is defined as the origin state. The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 11, characterized in that the flange back of the image sensor is adjusted in the origin state. (Composition 13) The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that the flange back of the image sensor is adjusted by adjusting the screws that fix the base member to the main body of the apparatus. (Composition 14) A flexible substrate is connected to the aforementioned image sensor. The imaging apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 13, characterized in that the flexible substrate is pulled out through an opening formed in the second spherical portion of the holding member. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 120 Imaging Units 121 Image sensor 150, 151, 550, 551 drive motors 200 IM optical axis 201 Main unit of the device 210, 610 base plate 310a, 310b, 310c First spherical portion 402 Image sensor plate 410a, 410b, 410c Second spherical section

Claims

1. The main body of the device, A base member having a first spherical portion and fixed to the main body of the device, A holding member having a second spherical portion, arranged in line with the base member in the direction of the imaging optical axis, and holding the image sensor, An imaging apparatus characterized by having a driving means that drives the holding member to move the second spherical portion relative to the first spherical portion while keeping it in contact with the first spherical portion, thereby tilting the holding member.

2. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding member rotates with respect to the base member, with the center of rotation being the center of a virtual sphere that includes the surface in contact with the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion.

3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the rotation center is located on at least one of the imaging surface of the image sensor or on the imaging optical axis.

4. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the driving means drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations.

5. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further characterized by having a biasing means for biasing the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction.

6. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion is formed by dividing it into three or more sections.

7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a restricting means for restricting the relative rotational position of the holding member with respect to the base member around the imaging optical axis.

8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the driving means is arranged on the base member.

9. The holding member has a biasing means that biases the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction, The driving means is arranged on the base member and drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, when viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis, the biasing position by the biasing means is located inside a virtual triangle whose vertices are the rotation center and the two locations.

10. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the driving means is arranged in the main body of the apparatus.

11. The holding member has a biasing means that biases the holding member in a direction in which the first spherical portion and the second spherical portion are in contact in the imaging optical axis direction, The driving means is arranged in the main body of the device and drives the holding member in the direction of the imaging optical axis at two different locations. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, when viewed from the direction of the imaging optical axis, the rotation center is located inside a virtual triangle whose vertices are the biasing position by the biasing means and the two locations.

12. The state in which the holding member is not tilted in any direction relative to the base member is defined as the origin state. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the flange back of the image sensor is adjusted in the origin state.

13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the flange back of the image sensor is adjusted by adjusting the screws that fix the base member to the main body of the apparatus.

14. A flexible substrate is connected to the aforementioned image sensor. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the flexible substrate is pulled out through an opening formed in the second spherical portion of the holding member.

Images