Optical instruments and imaging devices

Abstract

To provide an optical instrument having a focus floating mechanism that can be driven with high precision. [Solution] The system includes a first moving cylinder 108 and a second moving cylinder 118 that move simultaneously in the optical axis direction when the focal length is changed, a first lens holding frame 109 driven in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder 108 by a first drive unit 112, a second lens holding frame 115 driven in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder 118 by a second drive unit 116, and a guide member 110 provided on the first moving cylinder 108 that guides the first lens holding frame 109 and the second lens holding frame 115 in the optical axis direction, the first drive unit 112 being fixed to the first moving cylinder 108 and the second drive unit 116 being fixed to the second moving cylinder 118.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an optical device and an imaging apparatus including the same. In particular, the present invention relates to an optical device including a moving cylinder that is driven back and forth during zooming, and a lens holding frame that moves with respect to the moving cylinder.

Background Art

[0002] An imaging apparatus (optical device) such as a digital camera or a video camera moves a moving lens frame that holds a lens in the optical axis direction by a driving force from a driving source to perform zooming (zooming) and focusing (focusing). At this time, as a driving means (driving unit) for moving the lens holding frame, a stepping motor, a voice coil motor (VCM) composed of a magnet and a coil, a piezoelectric motor, and the like are known.

[0003] In recent years, a configuration in which a lens holding frame is driven by a driving unit such as a stepping motor with respect to a moving cylinder that moves in the optical axis direction by zooming with a cam cylinder has increased. In addition, a lens configuration having a so-called floating configuration in which a plurality of lens holding frames are moved in the optical axis direction by focusing has been increasing. Generally, the focus lens mainly adjusts focus, and the floating lens mainly has a role of correcting each aberration associated with focus movement. However, in recent years, with the sophistication of designs, it has become less likely to have a clear role.

[0004] In addition, with the evolution of the technology of the drive mechanism, a so-called direct drive type focus motor that directly drives a focus lens group or a floating group in the optical axis direction has become widespread. In Cited Document 1, an example is disclosed in which a moving cylinder includes a first driving unit, a second driving unit, a first lens holding frame, and a second lens holding frame. In addition, in Cited Document 2, an example is disclosed in which the first lens holding frame is provided in the first moving cylinder, and a part of the fixing of the driving unit is shared by the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder.

Prior Art Documents

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 7103364 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 7336500 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] However, in the configuration of Reference 1, since the same moving cylinder is equipped with both a first drive unit and a second drive unit, electrical noise is generated on the flexible printed circuit board (FPC) that supplies power to the drive units. Furthermore, there is a concern that vibrations generated by one drive unit may reduce the driving accuracy of the other.

[0007] Furthermore, because the same moving barrel houses both the first and second lens retaining frames, it is not possible to provide sufficient flexibility in the amount by which the first and second drive units drive the first and second lens retaining frames during computer zoom (CZ) operation. This raises concerns about reduced focus tracking performance during CZ operation.

[0008] In the configuration of Reference 2, some of the six degrees of freedom of the drive unit are restricted by the first moving cylinder, and the remainder are controlled by the second moving cylinder, thus reducing the concerns about unwanted vibrations and electrical noise mentioned in Reference 1. Furthermore, the first lens retaining frame is connected to the first moving cylinder in the optical axis direction, and the second lens retaining frame is connected to the second moving cylinder in the optical axis direction, allowing for degrees of freedom during CZ (Cross-Zap) focusing and improving focus tracking performance during CZ. However, the complex configuration raises concerns about increased costs and larger device size.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide an optical instrument for precisely driving a lens retaining frame and an imaging device equipped therewith. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To solve the above problems, an optical instrument as one aspect of the present invention comprises a first moving cylinder and a second moving cylinder that move simultaneously in the optical axis direction when the focal length is changed; a first lens holding frame driven in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder by a first drive unit; a second lens holding frame driven in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder by a second drive unit; and a guide member provided on the first moving cylinder that guides the first lens holding frame and the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction, wherein the first drive unit is fixed to the first moving cylinder and the second drive unit is fixed to the second moving cylinder. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an optical instrument that precisely drives a lens holding frame and an imaging device equipped therewith. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view showing the lens barrel 100. [Figure 2] This is an exploded perspective view of the lens barrel 100. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of the lens barrel 100. [Figure 4] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lens barrel 100. [Figure 5] This graph shows the movement trajectory of the focus position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the zoom position. [Figure 6] This graph shows the movement trajectory of the seventh lens holding frame 115 relative to the zoom position, with reference to the second motor unit 116. [Figure 7] This graph shows the movement trajectories of the position of the movement base 108 and the position of the 8th lens holding frame 118 relative to the zoom position, as well as the difference between the two. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing the imaging device 2000. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, an optical device and a camera device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. In each figure, the same members or elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0014] [Lens barrel 100] FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the lens barrel 100, which is a cross section including the optical axis at the wide-angle end. A longitudinal sectional view is a cross-sectional view cut by a plane parallel to the optical axis. FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the lens barrel 100, which is an exploded view including the fifth lens group L1 to the eighth lens group L8. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the lens barrel 100, which is a view showing four guide bars 110. A cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view cut by a plane (radial direction) orthogonal to the optical axis. FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the lens barrel 100, which is a view showing the positional relationship between the fifth lens holding frame 109 and the seventh lens holding frame 115.

[0015] The lens barrel (optical device, lens device) 100 is an optical device having an eight-group configuration including the first lens group L1 to the eighth lens group L8. In the lens barrel 100, the seventh lens group L7, which is a focus lens group, and the fifth lens group L5, which is a floating lens group, move in the optical axis direction, respectively.

[0016] By a zooming operation (zoom, variable magnification operation) in the lens barrel 100, all the lens groups (the first lens group L1 to the eighth lens group L8) move in the optical axis direction along predetermined trajectories, thereby changing the focal length. At this time, the fifth lens group L5 (the fifth lens holding frame 109) and the seventh lens group L7 (the seventh lens holding frame 115) are driven and controlled by a control unit (not shown) installed on the main circuit board so that the focus position and each aberration amount changed by the zooming operation are suppressed.

[0017] The lens barrel 100 includes a guide barrel 101, a cam barrel 102, a zoom operating barrel 103, and a fixed barrel 104. The guide tube 101 is a member having a straight groove 101A formed therein that guides each moving tube (moving base 108, eighth lens holding frame 118) in the straight direction.

[0018] The cam cylinder 102 is a component (rotating cylinder) that is closely positioned on the outer circumferential surface side of the guide cylinder 101. The cam cylinder 102 rotates around the optical axis when zooming is performed. The cam cylinder 102 has four types of cam grooves 102A and 102B formed in it, corresponding to the trajectory of each moving cylinder during zooming operation. Two of each type of cam groove 102A and 102B are formed.

[0019] The zoom operating tube 103 is a component that is closely positioned on the outer circumferential surface side of the fixed tube 104. The zoom operating tube 103 is held so as to be rotatable around the optical axis relative to the fixed tube 104. A zoom key (not shown) is formed in the zoom operating cylinder 103, and rotational force is transmitted to the cam cylinder 102 by this zoom key. The lens barrel 100 is configured such that each moving barrel moves along the optical axis due to the action of each cam follower, each straight groove, and each cam groove, as the cam barrel 102 rotates relative to the guide barrel 101.

[0020] As shown in Figure 4, when viewed radially, a portion of the fifth lens retaining frame 105 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115 overlaps with the moving base 108 or the eighth lens retaining frame 118, respectively.

[0021] The lens barrel 100 is equipped with multiple lens group units and retaining frames, corresponding to each lens group. The first group unit 105 is an optical unit (retaining frame) that holds the first lens group L1. The first lens group unit 105 is provided with a cam follower (not shown). The first lens group unit 105 and the first lens group L1 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation via this cam follower.

[0022] The second lens group unit 106 is a retaining frame that holds the second lens group L2. The second lens group unit 106 is provided with a cam follower (not shown). The second lens group unit 106 and the second lens group L2 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation due to this cam follower.

[0023] A cam follower (not shown) is provided on the movable base (first movable cylinder) 108. This cam follower engages with the straight groove 101A of the guide cylinder 101 and the cam groove 102A of the cam cylinder 102, respectively. The movable base 108 moves forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation.

[0024] The third lens retaining frame 107 is a retaining frame that holds the third lens group L3. The third lens retaining frame 107 is engaged and held with the moving base 108 via a cam follower (3 rollers). The third lens retaining frame 107 and the third lens group L3 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation.

[0025] The fourth lens retaining frame 113 is a retaining frame that holds the fourth lens group L4. The fourth lens retaining frame 113 constitutes part of the shake correction unit. The shake correction unit holds the fourth lens retaining frame 113 so that it can be driven in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis (optical axis perpendicular direction), and performs shake correction by driving the fourth lens retaining frame 113 with a shake correction drive unit composed of a magnet and a coil. The runout compensation unit is engaged and held to the moving base 108 via a cam follower (3 rollers). The fourth lens retaining frame 113 and the fourth lens group L4 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation via a cam follower of the moving base 108.

[0026] The fifth lens retaining frame (first lens retaining frame) 109 is a retaining frame that holds the fifth lens group L5, which is a floating group. The fifth lens retaining frame 109 is guided in a straight line along the optical axis direction with respect to the moving base 108, along two guide bars 110 (110A, 110B). The fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the fifth lens group L5 move in the optical axis direction relative to the moving base 108 by the first motor unit 112 when the moving base 108 moves in the optical axis direction due to the zooming operation.

[0027] The guide bars (guide members) 110A and 110B are rod-shaped members held by the guide bar cover 111. The guide bar 110 is positioned along the optical axis and is fitted into two places on the fifth lens retaining frame 109. The guide bars 110A and 110B guide the fifth lens retaining frame 109 in a straight line along the optical axis and restrict rotation around the optical axis. Of the two guide bars 110, the guide bar that restricts the tilting of the fifth lens retaining frame 109 (first guide bar) 110A is also called the main guide bar, and the guide bar that restricts rotation around the optical axis (second guide bar) 110B is also called the sub-guide bar.

[0028] The first motor unit (first drive unit) 112 is fixed to the mobile base 108 by fixing screws (not shown). The first motor unit 112 consists of a stepping motor, a lead screw, a rack, a rack biasing spring, and the like. The lead screw is fixed to the shaft of the stepping motor. The rack transmits the driving force of the stepping motor. The rack biasing spring eliminates play in the motor drive transmission by the rack, etc.

[0029] The sixth lens retaining frame 114 is a retaining frame that holds the sixth lens group L6. The sixth lens retaining frame 114 is engaged with and held by the movable base 108 by three rollers. The sixth lens retaining frame 114 and the sixth lens group L6 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction by zooming operation via the cam follower of the moving base 108.

[0030] The seventh lens retaining frame (second lens retaining frame) 115 is a retaining frame that holds the seventh lens group L7, which is the focusing group. The seventh lens retaining frame 115 is guided in a straight line along the optical axis direction with respect to the moving base 108, along two guide bars 110 (110C, 110D). The seventh lens retaining frame 115 and the seventh lens group L7 are driven (moved) in the optical axis direction by the second motor unit 116 relative to the moving base 108 when the moving base 108 moves back and forth in the optical axis direction due to zooming operation.

[0031] The guide bars (guide members) 110C and 110D are rod-shaped members held by the guide bar cover 111. The guide bars 110C and 110D are arranged along the optical axis and fitted into two places on the seventh lens retaining frame 115. The guide bar 110 guides the seventh lens retaining frame 115 in a straight line along the optical axis and restricts its rotation around the optical axis. Of the two guide bars 110, the guide bar that restricts the tilting of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 (third guide bar) 110C is also called the main guide bar, and the guide bar that restricts rotation around the optical axis (fourth guide bar) 110D is also called the sub-guide bar.

[0032] The main guide bar 110A, which restricts the tilting of the fifth lens retaining frame 109, is positioned closer to the first motor unit 112 in the direction around the optical axis than the sub-guide bar 110B when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the optical axis. Similarly, the main guide bar 110C, which restricts the tilting of the seventh lens retaining frame 115, is positioned closer to the second motor unit 116 in the direction around the optical axis than the sub-guide bar 110D, when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the optical axis.

[0033] The effects of positioning the main guide bar 110A and the main guide bar 110C in close proximity to the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116 will be described in detail. The inertial force generated by the driving force of the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116 becomes a force that causes the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115 to tip over. However, by positioning the main guide bar 110A and the main guide bar 110C in close proximity to the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116, the generated moment is reduced. In other words, for example, the moment generated when the drive in the optical axis direction is reversed can be prevented from causing instability in the orientation of the fifth lens retaining frame 109 (fifth lens group L5) and the seventh lens retaining frame 115 (seventh lens group L7).

[0034] The position detection unit 117 is a position detection mechanism that uses a light-emitting diode, a light-receiving sensor, and a reflection scale. The light-emitting diode and light-receiving sensor are packaged together and placed on the moving base 108. The reflection scale is placed on the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115, respectively. The position information of the fifth lens holding frame 109 and the seventh lens holding frame 115 obtained by the position detection unit 117 is transmitted to the control unit and fed back into the drive command for the second motor unit 116.

[0035] The second motor unit (second drive unit) 116 is fixed to the eighth lens retaining frame 118, which will be described later, by fixing screws 120. The second motor unit 116 is a piezoelectric motor and is composed of a motor stator 116a, a motor movable element 116b, a rack, a rack biasing spring, and the like. The rack transmits the driving force of the piezoelectric motor. The rack biasing spring eliminates play in the motor drive transmission by the rack and other components.

[0036] The position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 is restricted by two guide bars 110C and D. These two guide bars 110C and D are held by a movable base 108 and a guide bar cover 111. Therefore, the eccentricity and tilt of the sixth lens retaining frame 114 with respect to the optical axis are determined in relation to the movable base 108. In contrast, the second motor unit 116 is fixed to the eighth lens retaining frame 118. Therefore, the optical axis position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 is determined in relation to the eighth lens retaining frame 118.

[0037] The eighth lens retaining frame (second moving cylinder) 118 is a retaining frame that holds the eighth lens group L8. The eighth lens retaining frame 118 is equipped with a cam follower. This cam follower engages with the straight groove 101A of the guide cylinder 101 and the cam groove 102B of the cam cylinder 102, respectively. The eighth lens retaining frame 118 and the eighth lens group L8 move forward and backward in the optical axis direction during zooming. As described above, the second motor unit 116 is fixed to the eighth lens retaining frame 118 by fixing screws 120.

[0038] The eighth lens retaining frame 118 is biased in the optical axis direction relative to the moving base 108 by an elastic member (not shown), thereby suppressing play. If there is a certain amount of play in the eighth lens retaining frame 118, the inertial force of the second motor unit 116 will cause the eighth lens retaining frame 118 to wobble in the optical axis direction. When the drive unit is a VCM or piezoelectric motor, it is common to perform feedback control using a position detection system, so there was a risk of oscillation due to unwanted vibrations or electrical noise. By using an elastic member, such play is eliminated, and concerns that the feedback system may misinterpret and lead to oscillation are suppressed.

[0039] Power is supplied to the second motor unit 116 using an FPC (flexible printed circuit board). The FPC is stretched between the movable base 108 and the eighth lens holding frame 118. This FPC absorbs the difference in trajectories between the moving base 108 and the eighth lens retaining frame 118 due to zooming by utilizing its flexibility. Specifically, the FPC has a deflection-absorbing portion 119 that protrudes from the second motor unit 116, and this deflection-absorbing portion 119 absorbs the trajectory difference. The FPC is then fixed to the mobile base 108 and connected and wired to the main board.

[0040] The effects of fixing the second motor unit 116 to the eighth lens retaining frame 118 will be described in detail, in comparison with a typical configuration example. A typical configuration is one in which the second motor unit 116 is fixed to the mobile base 108.

[0041] In the lens barrel 100, focusing transmits the driving force from the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116 to the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115, respectively. At this time, vibrations occur in the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116. These vibrations are mainly transmitted to the movable base 108 and the eighth lens holding frame 118, to which the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116 are fixed. The vibrations are then transmitted to the guide tube 101 and the cam tube 102 via the cam followers that hold the movable base 108 and the eighth lens holding frame 118.

[0042] On the other hand, in a typical configuration, the first motor unit 112 and the second motor unit 116 are fixed only to the mobile base 108. As a result, the vibrations from each are simultaneously transmitted to the mobile base 108, exacerbating the vibrations. Additionally, electrical noise can be transmitted, and harmonic components may generate percussive sounds (also known as beat sounds).

[0043] Furthermore, in the lens barrel 100, the guide bars 110A and 111C that hold the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115 are both located on the moving base 108. This reduces the number of parts between them, suppresses variations in eccentricity and tilt due to tolerances, and makes it possible to stabilize optical performance.

[0044] On the other hand, in a typical configuration, the guide bar 110C that holds the seventh lens retaining frame 115 is placed on the eighth lens retaining frame 118, which increases the error with the fifth lens retaining frame 109. This raises concerns about potential degradation of optical performance.

[0045] Next, we will describe in detail the drive mechanism and tracking curve of the seventh lens group L7 and the eighth lens group L8 during zooming operations.

[0046] Figure 5 is a graph showing the movement trajectory of the focusing position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 with respect to the zoom position (focal length). In other words, it shows the movement trajectory of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 in the general configuration example described above. In the following, the focus position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the zoom position will be referred to as the lens focus position.

[0047] In Figure 5, the horizontal axis represents the zoom position (focal length), showing a continuous range from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end. The horizontal axis shows the rotation angle of the zoom control tube 103, normalized with the wide-angle end set to 0 and the telephoto end to 1. The vertical axis indicates the position of the seventh lens retaining frame 115, with the state where the image is in focus at infinity on the wide-angle side being the reference (0). Furthermore, the vertical axis is positive on the image plane side and negative on the object side. The solid line indicates the lens focus position of the seventh lens group L7, which is in focus at infinity. The dashed line indicates the focus position of the L7 lens group, which is in focus at a subject distance of 0.3m (close).

[0048] In Figure 5, the position information itself during feedback control is shown, as it is based on the position detected by the position detection unit 117. Since the position detection unit 117 and the guide bar 110 are positioned on the moving base 108, it is the same as using the moving base 108 or the guide bar 110 as a reference.

[0049] Figure 6 is a graph showing the movement trajectory of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the zoom position, with reference to the second motor unit 116. In other words, it shows the movement trajectory of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 within the lens barrel 100. Figure 6 shows the actual amount of movement of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 driven by the second motor unit 116. This can also be rephrased as the amount of movement of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the eighth lens retaining frame 118.

[0050] Figure 7 is a graph showing the movement trajectories of the position of the movable base 108 and the position of the eighth lens holding frame 118 with respect to the zoom position (focal length), as well as the difference between the two. The dashed line indicates the position of the movement base 108 relative to the zoom position. The dashed line indicates the position of the eighth lens retaining frame 118. The solid line shows the difference between the two. The horizontal axis represents the zoom position (focal length), showing a continuous range from the wide-angle end to the telephoto end. The vertical axis shows the position of the subject at the wide-angle end, relative to the position at infinity (0).

[0051] The difference shown in Figure 7 is the difference between the amount of movement of the movable base 108 detected by the position detection unit 117 during zooming operation and the amount of movement of the eighth lens holding frame 118 by the second motor unit 116. The difference in zoom level for each position is stored in the memory circuit of the main circuit board and used during control.

[0052] As shown in Figure 5, in a typical configuration, the position detection unit 117 serves as the reference point, and the amount of movement (travel distance) of the seventh lens holding frame 115 is A in the figure. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 6, in the lens barrel 100, the second motor unit 116 is the reference point, and the amount of movement (travel distance) of the eighth lens holding frame 118 by the second motor unit 116 is B in the figure.

[0053] In this way, in the lens barrel 100, the amount of movement B of the eighth lens retaining frame 118 can be made smaller than the amount of movement A of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 in a typical configuration example. In other words, the maximum value A of the amount of movement of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the moving base 108 and the maximum value B of the amount of movement of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 relative to the eighth lens retaining frame 118 are, A > B.

[0054] Fixing the second motor unit 116 to the eighth lens holding frame 118 rather than to the moving base 108 allows for a smaller amount of drive (movement) by the second motor unit 116. Therefore, the lens barrel 100 can be made smaller.

[0055] Furthermore, in a configuration where the second motor unit 116 is fixed to the eighth lens holding frame 118 (a configuration in which the position detection unit 117 and the second motor unit 116 are separated), the following problems are a concern. Specifically, when the user manually performs a zooming operation, the seventh lens holding frame 115 moves relative to the position detection unit 117 by the difference amount shown in Figure 5. As a result, even though the second motor unit 116 is not driven during control, it is detected as if the seventh lens holding frame 115 has moved. To resolve these problems, improving the controllability of the position detection unit 117, such as shortening the sampling period, becomes even more important.

[0056] Furthermore, in Figures 5 and 6, the slope of each graph curve indicates the drive speed (movement speed) of the seventh lens holding frame 115. In other words, it indicates the required speed (movement speed) of the second motor unit 116 when the zoom operating barrel 103 is rotated at a certain speed. Furthermore, the point with the largest absolute value of the slope in Figure 6 is smaller than the point with the largest absolute value of the slope in Figure 5. In other words, the lens barrel 100 can reduce the absolute value of the slope. Specifically, in a typical configuration, the seventh lens retaining frame 115 has a drive speed VC (see Figure 5). In the lens barrel 100, the seventh lens retaining frame 115 has a drive speed VD (see Figure 6).

[0057] In this way, the motor drive speed VD can be made smaller than the motor drive speed VC (the speed can be reduced). In other words, the maximum motor drive speed VC for the movement base 108 of the seventh lens holding frame 115 driven by the second motor unit 116, and the maximum motor drive speed VD for the eighth lens holding frame 118 are, VC > VD.

[0058] This makes it possible to reduce the required speed of the second motor unit 116. Consequently, it becomes possible to improve the focus tracking performance when the zoom operating barrel 103 is rotated quickly.

[0059] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the imaging device 2000. As shown in Figure 8, the imaging device 2000 comprises a lens device 2100 and a camera body 2200. The camera body 2200 is equipped with an image sensor 2210. The image sensor 2210 receives light from the lens device 2100.

[0060] The lens device 2100 includes the lens barrel 100 described above. The lens device 2100 is mounted on the camera body 2200. In other words, the lens barrel 100 constitutes part of a lens device 2100 used in interchangeable lens cameras, compact digital cameras, etc., and is used by being attached to the camera body 2200.

[0061] The lens device 2100 may be detachable from the camera body 2200, or it may not be detachable. Since the lens device 2100 includes the lens barrel 100, it is possible to realize a lens device that can obtain the effects of the lens barrel 100. Furthermore, since the imaging device 2000 includes the lens device 2100 which includes the lens barrel 100, it is possible to realize an imaging device that can obtain the effects of the lens barrel 100.

[0062] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of its gist.

[0063] The lens barrel 100 may employ the general configuration example described above.

[0064] For example, in this case, the movement trajectories of the moving base 108 and the eighth lens holding frame 118 during zooming are different, but they could be the same trajectory. As a result, it is expected that unwanted vibrations and the interaction of electrical noise between the two drive units will be suppressed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first motor unit 112 is a stepping motor and the second motor unit 116 is a piezoelectric motor, but it is obvious that different drive methods may be used for each.

[0065] The sub-guide bar 110B that restricts the rotation of the fifth lens retaining frame 109 around the optical axis and the sub-guide bar 110D that restricts the rotation of the seventh lens retaining frame 115 around the optical axis may be made common. In other words, by shifting the contact surfaces for restricting the rotation of the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115 in the direction of the optical axis, it is possible to use only one common sub-guide bar (the same component).

[0066] The movable base 108 and the eighth lens retaining frame 118 may directly hold an optical element (not shown) different from the fifth lens retaining frame 109 and the seventh lens retaining frame 115, or they may hold a lens retaining frame (not shown) that holds an optical element.

[0067] The moving base 108 and the eighth lens holding frame 118 may move along the same trajectory or along different trajectories during zooming operations. Furthermore, the movable base 108 and the eighth lens retaining frame 118 may move along different sides of a single cam groove. That is, the movable base 108 and the eighth lens retaining frame 118 move along different sides of a single cam groove. In this case, the movable base 108 and the eighth lens retaining frame 118 are biased toward the side of the cam groove by an elastic member.

[0068] This embodiment includes the following configuration. (Composition 1) A first moving cylinder and a second moving cylinder that move simultaneously in the optical axis direction when the focal length is changed, A first lens holding frame is driven in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder by the first drive unit, A second lens holding frame is driven in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder by the second drive unit, A guide member provided on the first moving cylinder guides the first lens holding frame and the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction, Equipped with, An optical instrument characterized in that the first drive unit is fixed to the first moving cylinder, and the second drive unit is fixed to the second moving cylinder. (Configuration 2) The optical instrument of configuration 2 is characterized in that, when viewed from the radial direction, a portion of the first lens retaining frame and the second lens retaining frame overlaps the first moving cylinder or the second moving cylinder. (Composition 3) The guide member is The first lens holding frame includes a first guide bar that guides the first lens in the direction of the optical axis, A second guide bar restricts the rotation of the first lens holding frame around the optical axis, A third guide bar guides the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction, A fourth guide bar restricts the rotation of the second lens retaining frame in the direction of the optical axis, Equipped with, The first drive unit is positioned closer to the first guide bar than the second guide bar in the direction of the optical axis, The optical instrument according to configuration 1 or 2, characterized in that the second drive unit is positioned closer to the third guide bar than the fourth guide bar in the direction of the optical axis. (Composition 4) An optical instrument having any of configurations 1 to 3, characterized in that the second guide bar and the fourth guide bar are the same member, and the rotation of the first lens retaining frame and the second lens retaining frame are restricted, respectively. (Composition 5) An optical instrument of any configuration 1 to 4, characterized in that, when the focal length is changed, the maximum value of the movement distance of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder is smaller than the maximum value of the movement distance of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder. (Composition 6) An optical instrument of any configuration 1 to 5, characterized in that, when the focal length is changed at a constant speed, the maximum value of the speed of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder is smaller than the maximum value of the speed of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder. (Composition 7) An optical instrument comprising any of configurations 1 to 6, characterized by having a detection unit for detecting the amount or speed of movement of the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder. (Composition 8) An optical instrument comprising any one of configurations 1 to 7, characterized by having a detection unit for detecting the amount or speed of movement of the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder. (Composition 9) An optical device having any of configurations 1 to 8, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder either directly hold an optical element different from the first lens holding frame and the second lens holding frame, or hold a lens holding frame that holds the optical element. (Composition 10) An optical device according to any of configurations 1 to 9, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along the same trajectory during zooming operation. (Composition 11) An optical instrument according to any of configurations 1 to 10, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along different trajectories during zooming operation. (Composition 12) An optical instrument of any configuration 1 to 11, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along different sides of a single cam groove. (Composition 13) It has flexible wiring that supplies power to the second drive unit, An optical device according to any of configurations 1 to 12, characterized in that the flexible wiring is stretched between the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder. (Composition 14) A lens device including one of the optical instruments from configuration 1 to 13, A camera body to which the aforementioned lens device is fixed or detachably attached, An imaging device characterized by comprising: [Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 100 Lens barrel (optical instrument, lens device) 101 Information tube 101A Straight groove 102 Cam cylinder 102A, 102B Cam groove 103 Zoom control tube 104 Fixed tube 105 Group 1 Unit 106 Group 2 Unit 108 Mobile Base (First Mobile Cylinder) 109 Fifth lens retaining frame (first lens retaining frame) 110 Guide bar (guide member) 110A Main guide bar (first guide bar) 110B Sub-guide bar (second guide bar) 110C Main Guide Bar (Third Guide Bar) 110D Sub-guide bar (fourth guide bar) 111 Guide bar cover 112 First motor unit (first drive unit) 115. Seventh lens retaining frame (second lens retaining frame) 116 Second motor unit (second drive unit) 116a Motor stator 116b Motor movable part 117 Position detection unit 118. Eighth lens retaining frame (second moving cylinder) 119. Flex absorption section 120 Fixing screws 2000 Imaging device 2100 Lens device 2200 Camera Body 2210 Image sensor A,B movement amount VC, VD Motor drive speed

Claims

1. A first moving cylinder and a second moving cylinder that move simultaneously in the optical axis direction when the focal length is changed, A first lens holding frame is driven in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder by the first drive unit, A second lens holding frame is driven in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder by the second drive unit, A guide member provided on the first moving cylinder guides the first lens holding frame and the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction, Equipped with, An optical instrument characterized in that the first drive unit is fixed to the first moving cylinder, and the second drive unit is fixed to the second moving cylinder.

2. The optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that, when viewed from the radial direction, a portion of the first lens retaining frame and the second lens retaining frame overlaps the first moving cylinder or the second moving cylinder.

3. The guide member is The first lens holding frame includes a first guide bar that guides the first lens in the direction of the optical axis, A second guide bar restricts the rotation of the first lens holding frame around the optical axis, A third guide bar guides the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction, A fourth guide bar restricts the rotation of the second lens retaining frame in the direction of the optical axis, Equipped with, The first drive unit is positioned closer to the first guide bar than the second guide bar in the direction of the optical axis, The optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second drive unit is positioned closer to the third guide bar than the fourth guide bar in the direction of the optical axis.

4. The optical device according to claim 3, characterized in that the second guide bar and the fourth guide bar are the same member, and restrict the rotation of the first lens retaining frame and the second lens retaining frame, respectively.

5. The optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that when the focal length is changed, the maximum value of the movement distance of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder is smaller than the maximum value of the movement distance of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder.

6. The optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that when the focal length is changed at a constant speed, the maximum value of the speed of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder is smaller than the maximum value of the speed of the second lens retaining frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder.

7. The optical instrument according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit for detecting the amount or speed of movement of the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction relative to the first moving cylinder.

8. The optical instrument according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit for detecting the amount or speed of movement of the second lens holding frame in the optical axis direction relative to the second moving cylinder.

9. The optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder directly hold an optical element different from the first lens holding frame and the second lens holding frame, or hold a lens holding frame that holds the optical element.

10. The optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along the same trajectory during zooming operation.

11. The optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along different trajectories during zooming operation.

12. The optical instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder move along different sides of a single cam groove.

13. It has flexible wiring that supplies power to the second drive unit, The optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that the flexible wiring is stretched between the first moving cylinder and the second moving cylinder.

14. A lens device including an optical instrument according to any one of claims 1 to 13, A camera body to which the aforementioned lens device is fixed or detachably attached, An imaging device characterized by comprising:

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