Imaging device and control method thereof

Abstract

To hold an image sensor corresponding to a state of an image capturing apparatus, in the image capturing apparatus which performs image blur correction by moving the image sensor.SOLUTION: An image capturing apparatus includes: an image sensor; and a movable portion configured to hold the image sensor and move in a direction perpendicular to an imaging optical axis. The image capturing apparatus further includes: holding means arranged alongside the movable portion in the direction of the imaging optical axis and configured to gradually change a holding force for holding the movable portion by moving back and forth in the direction of the imaging optical axis; and control means configured to control the holding force of the holding means for holding the movable portion depending on a state of the image capturing apparatus.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image sensor holding mechanism that holds an image sensor that is movable in a direction perpendicular to a photographing optical axis. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, technology to correct blur of a subject image caused by a shake applied to an imaging device (hereinafter referred to as image blur) has become widespread. One method for correcting image blur is image blur correction, which corrects image blur by moving a correction optical system, which is part of the optical system, in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis in response to the detected shake. Another method is image sensor shift type image blur correction, which corrects image blur by moving an image sensor in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis in response to the detected shake.

[0003] Conventionally, image sensor-shift type image stabilization has had problems such as the position of the image sensor not being fixed when the image sensor-shift type image stabilization is not in operation, resulting in a loss of shock resistance. Also, even when image stabilization is not required during shooting, it is necessary to constantly energize the coil to keep the position of the image sensor constant, which increases power consumption.

[0004] In view of this, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for suppressing positional deviation of an imaging element by pressing and holding the imaging element at an arbitrary position, even when power supply to the coil is stopped.

[0005] On the other hand, there are known techniques for cooling the imaging unit and absorbing heat from the imaging element. Patent Document 2 discloses a technique in which a heat dissipation member moves between a first position where it contacts the imaging unit and a second position where it is separated from the imaging unit. The heat dissipation member is kept in the first position except during shooting, promoting heat dissipation from the imaging unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-59551 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2009-278584 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, the conventional technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not mention the pressure to be applied when holding the camera, and if the pressure is too strong, there is a risk that the position of the image sensor in the shooting optical axis direction (flange back) will change due to slight deformation or tilt of the image sensor unit.

[0008] Furthermore, in the conventional technology disclosed in Patent Document 2, the heat dissipation member is separated from the imaging unit during shooting, so that heat cannot be dissipated during shooting when the imaging element generates heat.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE In view of the above, an object of the present invention is to hold an image sensor in accordance with the state of the image sensor in an image sensor that performs image blur correction by moving the image sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above object, an imaging device according to the present invention is an imaging device having an imaging element and a movable part that holds the imaging element and is movable in a direction perpendicular to an imaging optical axis, the imaging device having a holding means that is arranged alongside the movable part in the direction of the imaging optical axis and that is capable of gradually switching a holding force when holding the movable part by moving forward and backward in the direction of the imaging optical axis, and a control means that controls the holding force of the holding means when holding the movable part in accordance with a state of the imaging device. The control means controls, depending on a state of the imaging device, the imaging device to be in one of a non-holding state in which the movable part is not held by the holding means, a first holding state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a first holding force, and a second holding state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a second holding force stronger than the first holding force. The present invention is characterized by the above. Effect of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, in an imaging device that performs image blur correction by moving an imaging element, it is possible to hold the imaging element in accordance with the state of the imaging device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a digital camera 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a side view showing the configuration of a digital camera 100. FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging unit 200 and the imaging element lock mechanism 250. FIG. [Figure 4] 13 is an exploded front perspective view of the image sensor lock mechanism 250. FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the imaging unit 200 and the imaging element lock mechanism 250. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the moving image shooting mode is set. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 according to the recording mode in a configuration in which two recording media can be mounted. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 in accordance with the writing speed of the loaded recording medium in a configuration in which multiple types of recording medium can be loaded. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when communicating with an external device in a configuration capable of communicating with an external device. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the temperature of the image sensor reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 depending on whether or not a lens with an image stabilization function is attached. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when an operation other than that related to photography is performed. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the power switch is changed. [Figure 14]FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the state has changed to the auto power off state. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the state changes from the auto power off state. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the image sensor cleaning mode is set. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] A preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, the internal structure of a digital camera 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of the digital camera 100.

[0014] The shutter 12 is a light blocking member that opens and closes to control the amount of exposure to the image sensor 231. A light beam that enters the photographing lens 20 is guided via the aperture 26 and the shutter 12, and is focused on the imaging surface of the image sensor 231 as an optical image.

[0015] The imaging unit 200 has an imaging element unit 230 and an image blur correction unit 240. The imaging element unit 230 has an imaging element 231 that converts an optical image into an electrical signal.

[0016] The image stabilization unit 240 performs image sensor shift type image stabilization, which corrects image shake by moving the image sensor 231 in a direction perpendicular to the photographing optical axis according to the amount of shake detected by the gyro 82. A known method may be used to calculate the amount of movement of the image sensor 231 from the amount of shake detected by the gyro 82, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0017] When the image stabilization unit 240 is not performing correction, the image sensor lock mechanism 250 holds the image sensor unit 230 so that the position of the image sensor 231 does not change.

[0018] The correction lens 22 is controlled by the optical image blur correction control unit 64 according to the amount of shake detected by the gyro 82, and image blur is corrected by moving the correction lens 22 in a direction perpendicular to the photographing optical axis. A known method may be used to calculate the amount of movement of the correction lens 22 from the amount of shake detected by the gyro 82, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0019] When correction is not being performed by the correction lens 22, the lens lock mechanism 28 holds the correction lens 22 so that the position of the correction lens 22 does not change.

[0020] The first card slot 30 is a first card slot for the recording medium 500, and when the recording medium 500 is loaded, it is detected by a loading detection means 32. The second card slot 40 is a second card slot for the recording medium 520, and when the recording medium 520 is loaded, it is detected by a loading detection means 42.

[0021] The system control circuit 50 is a system control circuit such as a CPU that controls the entire digital camera 100 , and the memory 52 is a memory that stores constants, variables, programs, etc. for the operation of the system control circuit 50 .

[0022] The system control circuit 50 executes setting processes, determination processes, and control processes in various operations of the digital camera 100. The system control circuit 50 also controls the shutter 12, lenses 22 and 24, and aperture 26 to perform AF processing and AE processing, based on the results of calculations performed by the image processing circuit 60 on image data captured by the image sensor 231. The memory 52 also stores the holding state of the image sensor unit 230 by the image sensor lock mechanism 250.

[0023] A timer 56 measures the elapsed time, and a thermometer 58 measures the temperature of the image sensor 231. An operation member 80 includes various buttons and switches, and is used to select and set various functions when performing shooting, playback, communication, etc., and to give instructions related to shooting and playback.

[0024] The gyroscope 82 detects angular velocity as information related to the shake of the digital camera 100. The power switch 84 switches the power of the digital camera 100 on and off.

[0025] The power supply control circuit 86 is composed of a battery detection circuit, a DC / DC converter, a switch circuit for switching between blocks to which electricity is applied, etc. It detects the type and remaining charge of the battery 82 that serves as the power source for the digital camera 100, and supplies the necessary voltage for the necessary period to each section including the recording medium based on the detection result and instructions from the system control circuit 50.

[0026] The communication control unit 94 controls wireless communication with an external device (not shown) via an antenna 98, wired communication via a communication connector 98, and the like.

[0027] The recording media 500 and 520 are recording media for recording acquired image data, such as an SD card, a CF card, a CFexpress card, etc. They are provided with a recording area constituted by a semiconductor memory or the like, an interface with the digital camera 100, and a connector for connecting to the digital camera 100.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a side view showing the configuration of the digital camera 100. As shown in FIG.

[0029] On the rear side (photographer side) of the imaging unit 200, there is an imaging element lock mechanism 250 that holds the position of the imaging element unit 230 when the image blur correction unit 240 is not in operation. Also, on the rear side of the imaging unit 200, there is disposed a chassis 150 that is the housing of the digital camera 100. Between the chassis 150 and the imaging element lock mechanism 250, a heat transfer member 170 made of a member having high thermal conductivity is disposed so as to abut against both of them. Note that a configuration in which the chassis 150 and the imaging element lock mechanism 250 directly abut against each other may also be adopted.

[0030] Next, the configurations of the imaging unit 200 and the imaging element locking mechanism 250 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the imaging unit 200 and the imaging element locking mechanism 250, where (a) is a front perspective view as seen from the subject side, and (b) is a rear perspective view as seen from the photographer side.

[0031] The imaging unit 200 has a configuration in which an imaging element unit 230 is sandwiched between a front plate 210 and a rear plate 220 formed from metal plates. The front plate 210 is fixed to a structure (not shown) in the digital camera 100, and the rear plate 220 is fixed to the front plate 210 with the imaging element unit 230 sandwiched between them.

[0032] The imaging element unit 230 includes an imaging element 231 and an imaging element holder 232 that holds the imaging element 231, and three balls 211 are arranged around the imaging element 231 between the front plate 210 and the imaging element holder 232 so as to surround the imaging optical axis. As the balls 211 roll freely, the imaging element unit 230 is held between the front plate 210 and the rear plate 220 so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis. In other words, the imaging element unit 230, which is a movable part, is movable in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis with respect to the front plate 210 and the rear plate 220, which are fixed parts.

[0033] Furthermore, imaging element holder 232 is provided with magnet 233, which attracts front plate 210, thereby bringing front plate 210, imaging element holder 232, and ball 211 into contact with each other. This determines the flange back position of imaging element 231 in digital camera 100 to a specified position.

[0034] Next, the image blur correction unit 240 will be described. Magnets 241 and 242 are arranged on the front plate 210 and the rear plate 220 so as to face each other, respectively. In addition, a coil 243 is arranged at a position sandwiched between the magnets 241 and 242 provided on the imaging element holder 232. Power is supplied to the coil 243 by a power supply circuit (not shown), and the driving control of the imaging element unit 230 is performed by utilizing the repulsive and attractive forces between the magnetic field generated in the coil 243 and the magnets 241 and 242.

[0035] The image stabilization unit 240 performs control to move the image sensor unit 230 in a direction that cancels camera shake of the digital camera 100 caused by the photographer.

[0036] Next, a description will be given of the imaging element lock mechanism 250. The imaging element lock mechanism 250 is disposed on the rear side of the imaging element unit 230 by attaching a lock mechanism base 251, which is a base member, to the rear plate 220.

[0037] Furthermore, the lock plate 252 held by the lock mechanism base 251 advances and retreats in the direction of the imaging optical axis of the imaging element 231, and is switched between a holding state in which a lock rubber 253 provided on the lock plate 252 abuts against the imaging element holder 232 and a non-holding state in which it is separated. In a state in which the lock rubber 253 abuts against the imaging element holder 232, the movement of the imaging element holder 232 in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis is restricted by the frictional force of the contact surface. In other words, the imaging element lock mechanism 250 is disposed to be aligned with the imaging element unit 230 in the direction of the imaging optical axis, and functions as a holding means that holds the imaging element unit 230 by advancing and retreating in the direction of the imaging optical axis.

[0038] Therefore, even if the power supply to the coil 243 is stopped, as long as the imaging element lock mechanism 250 is in the holding state, the imaging element holder 232 can be held at a desired position.

[0039] Next, the image sensor lock mechanism 250 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is an exploded front perspective view of the image sensor lock mechanism 250. Hereinafter, the direction of the photographing optical axis will also be referred to as the optical axis direction.

[0040] A guide pin 261 is provided on the lock mechanism base 251, and engages with a guide hole 264 formed in the lock plate 252 to guide the lock plate 252 to move forward and backward in the optical axis direction. A gear holding hole 262 is provided on the lock mechanism base 251, and a cam gear 254 is disposed in the gear holding hole 262. The rear side of the cam gear 254 is held by a gear cover 255, and rotated by an actuator 256 provided on the lock mechanism base 251. A combination of a cam portion 263 provided on the cam gear 254 and a cam portion 265 provided on the lock plate 252 converts the rotational motion of the cam gear 254 into a linear motion of the lock plate 252. This allows the lock plate 252 to move forward and backward in the optical axis direction, and the lock rubber 253 disposed on the lock plate 252 can be switched between a holding state in which it abuts against the image sensor holder 232 and a non-holding state in which it is separated from the image sensor holder 232.

[0041] Next, the movement of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged view of the image sensor unit 200 and the image sensor lock mechanism 250. Fig. 5(a) shows the image sensor unit 230 in an unretained state, and the lock rubber 253 in this state is referred to as the lock rubber 253a. The lock rubber 253a is spaced apart from the image sensor holder 232. In this state, the image sensor unit 230 can move in a direction perpendicular to the imaging optical axis, and the image blur correction unit 240 can control the position of the image sensor 231 relative to the imaging optical axis.

[0042] 5(b) and (c) show a holding state of the imaging element unit 230 in which the lock plate 253 approaches the imaging element holder 232 and the imaging element holder 232 abuts against the lock rubber 253. In this state, the position of the imaging element holder 232 is fixed by the frictional force between the imaging element holder 232 and the lock rubber 253. Therefore, even if the image stabilization unit 240 is not in operation, the position of the imaging element unit 230 can be held at a desired position.

[0043] Fig. 5(b) shows a holding state (first holding state) in which the biasing force of the lock rubber 253 on the imaging element holder 232 becomes a first biasing force, and the lock rubber 253 in this state is referred to as lock rubber 253b. Fig. 5(c) shows a holding state (second holding state) in which the biasing force of the lock rubber 253 on the imaging element holder 232 becomes a second biasing force, and the lock rubber 253 in this state is referred to as lock rubber 253c.

[0044] In the first holding state, the charge amount of the lock rubber 253b is smaller than the charge amount of the lock rubber 253c in the second holding state described below. Therefore, the urging force applied to the imaging element holder 232 by the lock rubber 253b is weaker than the urging force applied to the imaging element holder 232 by the lock rubber 253c.

[0045] In a state where there is relatively little vibration, such as when the digital camera 100 is attached to a tripod, it is sufficient that a frictional force is generated between the imaging element holder 232 and the lock rubber 253 so that the imaging element unit 230 does not move due to gravity. Also, if the urging force applied to the imaging element holder 232 by the lock rubber 253 is strong in order to increase the frictional force, there is a risk that slight deformation or tilt of the imaging element unit 230 will occur. Therefore, the first urging force in the first state is set to a strength that prevents the imaging element unit 230 from moving due to gravity and does not cause slight deformation of the imaging element unit 230.

[0046] Therefore, in the first holding state, even when a biasing force is applied to the imaging element holder 232, there is no displacement in the optical axis direction that would cause a deterioration in the image resolution of the imaging element 231. Furthermore, the lock rubbers 253 are arranged above and below so as to sandwich the center of gravity of the three balls 211, thereby preventing the imaging element holder 232 from tilting due to the biasing force.

[0047] As described above, by setting the image stabilization unit 240 in the first holding state when it is in the non-operating state, it is possible to take a good image.

[0048] In the second holding state, the charge amount of the lock rubber 253c is larger than the charge amount of the lock rubber 253b in the first holding state. Therefore, the urging force that the lock rubber 253c applies to the imaging element holder 232 is stronger than in the first holding state. In the second holding state, the second urging force is set so that the position of the imaging element unit 230 does not move even when acceleration is applied to the imaging unit 200 due to an external force.

[0049] As described above, by setting the image stabilization unit 240 to the second holding state when the image stabilization unit 240 is in a non-operating state, it is possible to improve the shock resistance around the imaging unit 200. In other words, the imaging element lock mechanism 250 can switch the holding force when holding the imaging element unit 230 in a stepwise manner.

[0050] Furthermore, imaging element lock mechanism 250 is thermally connected to chassis 150 by heat transfer member 170 arranged on the rear side. Thermal energy emitted from imaging element 231 in the first holding state and second holding state is transferred to imaging element lock mechanism 250 via imaging element holder 232 and lock rubber 253, and can be dissipated to chassis 150 via heat transfer member 170.

[0051] With the above configuration, the digital camera 100 in this embodiment can maintain the position of the image sensor 231 and suppress a temperature rise in the image sensor 231 by setting the image sensor unit 230 in a holding state. Furthermore, since the image sensor unit 230 can be held in a first holding state and a second holding state with different biasing forces, it is possible to hold the image sensor according to the state of the imaging device, such as when it is desired to prevent deterioration of image quality or when it is desired to improve the impact resistance around the image sensor unit 200.

[0052] An example of selecting whether the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is the first held state, the second held state, or the non-held state will be described below. An operation of changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 according to the settings and state of the digital camera 100 will be described below with reference to Figs. 6 to 11.

[0053] Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when the video shooting mode is set. The operation shown in Fig. 6 is started when the power of the digital camera 100 is turned on.

[0054] First, in step S101, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the user has changed the shooting conditions by operating the operation member 80. If it is determined that the shooting conditions have not been changed, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination operation until the shooting conditions are changed.

[0055] If it is determined in step S101 that the shooting conditions have been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines in step S102 whether or not the shooting mode has been changed to a moving image shooting mode.

[0056] If it is determined that the mode is to be changed to moving image capture mode (moving image capture mode is set), the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image capture element lock mechanism 250 in step S103.

[0057] If it is determined that the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is in the non-held state, then in step S104 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to the first held state. Then in step S105 the system control circuit 50 stops the power supply to the coil 243, and ends the change in the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 due to the change in the shooting conditions.

[0058] If it is determined in step S103 that the first holding state is selected, the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not changed and the process ends.

[0059] If it is determined in step S103 that the second held state is established, the system control circuit 50 starts passing current through the coil 243 in step S106, and in step S107 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set it to the non-held state. Next, in step S108, the system control circuit 50 starts the operation of the image blur correction unit 240 to move the image sensor unit 230 based on information from the photographic lens 20 (such as individual difference information), and then the process proceeds to step S104.

[0060] In this way, when changing from the second holding state to the first holding state, by going through the non-holding state once, the image sensor unit 230 can be held in a position that takes into account information from the photographing lens 20 (such as individual difference information).

[0061] If it is determined in step S102 that the shooting mode has been changed to a shooting mode other than the moving image shooting mode (a shooting mode other than the moving image shooting mode has been set), the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in step S109.

[0062] If it is determined in step S109 that the state is the first hold state or the second hold state, the system control circuit 50 starts passing current through the coil 243 in step S110, and in step S111 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to put it in the non-hold state. Next, in step S112, the system control circuit 50 starts operation of the image stabilization unit 240, and the change in state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is completed.

[0063] If it is determined in step S109 that the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not held, the process ends without changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250.

[0064] In the above, the case where the video shooting mode is selected as the shooting condition is described, but the shooting mode in which the first holding state is set is not limited to the video shooting mode. For example, when a tripod shooting mode in which camera shake is relatively small, or a long exposure shooting mode or an interval shooting mode in which shooting is often performed using a tripod is selected, the same control as in the video shooting mode may be performed. Since these shooting modes have relatively little camera shake, it is not necessary to increase the biasing force of the image sensor lock mechanism 250, so the first holding state, which can reduce power consumption more than the non-holding state, is effective. Furthermore, since the image sensor 231 is more likely to increase in temperature in the long exposure shooting mode and the interval shooting mode than in normal still image shooting, the first holding state, which can dissipate heat via the image sensor lock mechanism 250, is effective.

[0065] Also, when the second holding state is determined in step S103, the state transitions to the first holding state via a non-holding state once, but the second holding state may transition to the first holding state. In that case, the power supply to the coil 243 is kept stopped during the transition from the second holding state to the first holding state, and the position of the image sensor unit 230 is not moved.

[0066] As described above, when the video shooting mode is selected, the thermal energy of the image sensor 231 is dissipated to the chassis 150 via the image sensor lock mechanism 250 and the heat transfer member 170, thereby suppressing a rise in temperature of the image sensor 231. Furthermore, by not making the biasing force of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 too strong, it is possible to prevent the image sensor 231 from being displaced in the optical axis direction, thereby preventing deterioration of image quality.

[0067] Next, the operation of the digital camera 100 when the power consumption becomes high will be described with reference to Fig. 7 to Fig. 9. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 according to the recording method in a configuration in which two recording media can be mounted. The operation shown in Fig. 7 starts when the digital camera 100 is set to power on.

[0068] In step S201, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the user has changed the recording settings of the recording medium by operating the operation member 80. If it is determined that the recording settings have not been changed, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination operation until the recording settings have been changed.

[0069] If it is determined in step S201 that the recording settings have been changed, the system control circuit 50 controls the attachment detection means 32, 42 in step S202 to determine the attachment state of the recording media in the first card slot 30 and the second card slot 40.

[0070] If it is determined in step S202 that a recording medium is not inserted, step S202 is repeated. If it is determined in step S202 that a recording medium is inserted in either the first card slot 30 or the second card slot 40, the process proceeds to step S109 in FIG.

[0071] If it is determined in step S202 that recording media are installed in both card slots, the system control circuit 50 determines in step S203 whether to change to a simultaneous recording mode in which image data is recorded simultaneously on both recording media 500, 520.

[0072] If it is determined in step S203 that the mode is to be changed to the simultaneous recording mode (the simultaneous recording mode is set), the process proceeds to step S103 in FIG. 6, and if it is determined that the mode is to be changed to a mode other than the simultaneous recording mode, the process proceeds to step S109 in FIG.

[0073] The power consumption of the digital camera 100 is higher when recording to multiple recording media simultaneously than when recording to one recording medium, and the temperature of the housing is also more likely to rise. If the temperature of the housing rises, the heat dissipation efficiency decreases, and there is a risk of malfunction in the operation of the entire digital camera 100. Therefore, when the simultaneous recording mode is set, the image sensor lock mechanism 250 holds the image sensor 231 to reduce power consumption. In the above explanation, when the simultaneous recording mode is set, the first holding state is set, but the second holding state may be set to hold the image sensor 231.

[0074] In addition, in the above description, the simultaneous recording mode is a mode in which data is recorded simultaneously onto two recording media, but the simultaneous recording mode may be a mode in which data is recorded simultaneously onto three or more recording media.

[0075] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of digital camera 100 in accordance with the writing speed of the mounted recording medium in a configuration in which multiple types of recording media can be mounted. The operation shown in Fig. 8 starts when digital camera 100 is set to power on.

[0076] In step S301, the system control circuit 50 controls the attachment detection means 32, 42 to determine whether or not the recording media attached to the two card slots have been changed. If it is determined that the recording media has not been changed, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination operation until the recording media is changed.

[0077] If it is determined in step S301 that the recording medium has been changed, the system control circuit 50 determines in step S302 whether the recording media installed in the two card slots are CFexpress cards or not. If it is determined that the recording media are CFexpress cards, the process proceeds to step S103 in Fig. 6, and if it is determined that the recording media are other than CFexpress cards, the process proceeds to step S109 in Fig. 6.

[0078] Since the CFexpress card has a faster writing speed than the SD card, it often records image data with a large recording capacity, and the power consumption of the digital camera increases and the temperature of the housing is likely to rise. Therefore, when the CFexpress card is attached, the image sensor 231 is held by the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to reduce power consumption. In the above description, when the CFexpress card is attached, the first holding state is set, but the second holding state may be set to hold the image sensor 231. Also, when the CFexpress card is attached to both of the two card slots, the first holding state may be set, but when the CFexpress card is attached to either one of the two card slots, the first holding state may be set. Alternatively, when the CFexpress card is attached to the card slot that is preferentially used for recording, the first holding state may be set. Also, the configuration may have one card slot. Also, the CFexpress card is an example of a recording medium with a high writing speed, and when a recording medium with a writing speed faster than a predetermined writing speed is attached, the same control as when the CFexpress card is attached may be performed.

[0079] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera 100 when communicating with an external device in a configuration capable of communicating with an external device. The operation shown in Fig. 9 is started when the power of the digital camera 100 is turned on.

[0080] In step S401, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not communication with an external device (not shown) such as a PC or cloud storage has been started by the communication control means 94. If it is determined that communication has not been started, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination operation until communication is started.

[0081] If it is determined in step S401 that communication has started, the process proceeds to step S103 in FIG.

[0082] When image data is exchanged through communication with an external device, circuits other than the control circuit related to photography also operate, so the power consumption of the digital camera increases and the temperature of the case is likely to rise. Therefore, when communicating with an external device, the image sensor 231 is held by the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to reduce power consumption. In the above description, the first holding state is set when communicating with an external device, but the second holding state may be set to hold the image sensor 231. Note that communication with an external device may be wireless communication using the antenna 96 or wired communication via the communication connector 98, and either may be used.

[0083] Next, an example will be described in which the state of the imaging element lock mechanism 250 is changed in accordance with the temperature of the imaging element 231. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 when the temperature of the imaging element 231 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. The operation shown in Fig. 10 is started when the power of the digital camera 100 is set to on.

[0084] In step S501, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the measurement result of the thermometer 58 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value t0. If it is determined that the measurement result is not equal to or greater than the predetermined value t0, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination until the measurement result is equal to or greater than the predetermined value t0. The predetermined value t0 is the upper limit temperature at which image quality does not deteriorate due to heat of the image sensor 231.

[0085] If it is determined in step S501 that the measurement result of the thermometer 58 is equal to or greater than the predetermined value t0, the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in step S502.

[0086] If it is determined in step S502 that the image sensor 231 is not in the held state, then in step S503 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to enter the first held state. Then, in step S504 the system control circuit 50 stops the supply of current to the coil 243, and ends the change of the held state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 according to the temperature of the image sensor 231.

[0087] In step S502, if it is determined that the holding state is the first holding state or the second holding state, the holding state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not changed and the process ends.

[0088] As described above, when the temperature of the imaging element 231 reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, it is possible to suppress a rise in temperature of the imaging element 231 by dissipating heat to the chassis 150 via the imaging element lock mechanism 250 and the heat transfer member 170. By using the temperature of the imaging element 231 as a judgment condition, it is possible to accurately judge whether or not it is a situation in which it is better to dissipate heat from the imaging element 231.

[0089] Next, an example will be described in which the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is changed depending on the attached photographic lens 20. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 depending on whether or not a lens with an image stabilization function is attached. The operation shown in Fig. 11 is started when the photographic lens 20 is attached to the digital camera 100.

[0090] In step S601, the system control circuit 50 acquires lens information of the attached photographic lens 20. The lens information includes the focal length, F-number, additional functions such as image blur correction, individual difference information, and the like.

[0091] Next, in step S602, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the photographing lens 20 has an image stabilization function. If it is determined that the photographing lens 20 has an image stabilization function, the process proceeds to step S103 in Fig. 6, and if it is determined that the photographing lens 20 does not have an image stabilization function, the process proceeds to step S109 in Fig. 6.

[0092] As described above, if the photographing lens 20 has an image shake correction function, the operation of the image shake correction unit 240 is stopped to reduce power consumption of the digital camera 100. Because the photographing lens 20 has an image shake correction function, it is possible to reduce power consumption of the digital camera 100 while performing image shake correction at the photographing lens 20.

[0093] Next, an operation for changing the state of image sensor lock mechanism 250 by an operation other than that related to photography, such as image data playback, will be described. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of digital camera 100 when an operation other than that related to photography is performed. The operation shown in Fig. 12 is started when digital camera 100 is set to power on.

[0094] In step S701, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation other than that related to photography using the operation member 80. If it is determined that an operation related to photography has been performed, the system control circuit 50 repeats this determination until an operation other than that related to photography is performed.

[0095] If it is determined in step S701 that an operation other than that related to photography has been performed, the system control circuit 50 stores the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in the memory 52 in step S702.

[0096] In step S 703 , the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 .

[0097] If it is determined in step S703 that the image sensor is not in the held state, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to the first held state in step S704. Then, the system control circuit 50 stops the power supply to the coil 243 in step S705.

[0098] Next, in step S706, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the user has performed an operation related to photography using the operation member 80. An operation related to photography is a photography preparation operation such as changing the photography conditions, a photography operation, etc. If it is determined that an operation other than photography has been performed, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination until an operation related to photography is performed.

[0099] If it is determined in step S706 that an operation related to shooting has been performed, in step S707 the system control circuit 50 starts passing current through the coil 243. Then, in step S708, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set it to the non-holding state. Next, in step S709, the system control circuit 50 starts the operation of the image stabilization unit 240.

[0100] If it is determined in step S703 that the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is in the first holding state or the second holding state, the process ends without changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250.

[0101] As described above, since image sensor lock mechanism 250 is set to the held state when an operation other than that related to photography is performed, it is possible to reduce power consumption of digital camera 100. Furthermore, by storing the state of image sensor lock mechanism 250 before the change and returning it to the stored held state when an operation related to photography is performed, it is possible to return to photography without any discomfort even if an operation other than that related to photography is performed between photography sessions.

[0102] Although an example of changing from the non-held state to the first held state has been described above, it is also possible to change from the non-held state to the second state. Next, an example of changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 when the power state of the digital camera 100 is changed will be described. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 when the power state of the digital camera 100 is changed, Fig. 13(a) shows a case where the power is changed from on to off, and Fig. 13(b) shows a case where the power is changed from off to on. First, the operation shown in Fig. 13(a) will be described.

[0103] In step S801, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the power switch 84 has been changed from on to off. If it is determined that the power switch 84 remains on, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination until the power switch 84 is turned off.

[0104] If it is determined in step S801 that the power switch 84 has been turned off, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to the second holding state in step S802. Then, in step S803, the system control circuit 50 controls the power supply control circuit 86 to stop the power supply from the battery 88.

[0105] As described above, when the power state is changed from on to off, the second hold state is established. This improves the shock resistance around the imaging unit 200, and makes it possible to prevent damage to the imaging element unit 230 even if the digital camera 100 receives an external shock.

[0106] 13(b) will now be described. In step S851, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the power switch 84 has been changed from off to on. If it is determined that the power switch 84 remains off, the system control circuit 50 repeats this determination until the power switch 84 is turned on.

[0107] If it is determined in step S851 that the power switch 84 is turned on, the system control circuit 50 controls the power supply control circuit 86 to resume the power supply from the battery 88 in step S852, and then starts energizing the coil 243 in step S852. Next, in step S854, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to put it in the non-holding state, and starts the operation of the image stabilization unit 240 in step S855.

[0108] As described above, when the power state is changed from OFF to ON, the non-holding state allows a quick transition to a shooting operation.

[0109] Next, an operation for changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 when a state change related to the auto power off state occurs in the digital camera 100 will be described. When the digital camera 100 enters the auto power off state, it can be changed to a power saving state in which power consumption is reduced from the normal shooting preparation state. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 when it enters the auto power off state from the shooting preparation state. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a flowchart of the operation of the digital camera 100 when it enters the auto power off state from the shooting preparation state.

[0110] First, a case where the digital camera 100 goes from the shooting preparation state to the auto power off state will be described with reference to Fig. 14. In step S901, the system control circuit 50 determines whether the digital camera 100 has gone into the auto power off state without being operated by the user for a predetermined period of time. If it is determined that the digital camera 100 remains in the shooting preparation state, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination until the digital camera goes into the auto power off state.

[0111] If it is determined in step S901 that the auto power off state has occurred, then in step S902 the system control circuit 50 controls the power supply control circuit 86 to transition to a power saving state in which power consumption is reduced from the shooting preparation state.

[0112] In step S903, the system control circuit 50 stores the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in the memory 52, and in step S904, the system control circuit 50 starts the timer 56. Next, in step S905, the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250.

[0113] If it is determined in step S905 that the image sensor is not held, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to the first held state in step S906.

[0114] In step S908, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the timer 56 has elapsed a predetermined time T1, and if it determines that the predetermined time T1 has not elapsed, repeats the determination until the predetermined time T1 has elapsed.

[0115] If it is determined in step S908 that the predetermined time T1 has elapsed (the elapsed time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time), then in step S909 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to enter the second holding state. Then, in step S910, the system control circuit 50 stops the timer 56, and ends the change of the holding state due to the change to the auto power off state.

[0116] If it is determined in step S905 that the state is the first hold state, the process proceeds to step S908. If it is determined in step S905 that the state is the second hold state, the system control circuit 50 determines in step S911 whether the timer 56 has elapsed a predetermined time T1. If it is determined that the predetermined time T1 has not elapsed, the process repeats the determination until the predetermined time T1 has elapsed, and if it is determined that the predetermined time T1 has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S910.

[0117] As described above, the holding state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is changed depending on the time that has elapsed since the transition to the auto power off state. Therefore, until the predetermined time T1 has elapsed since the auto power off state, the holding state is set to the first holding state to facilitate returning to the shooting operation, and once the predetermined time T1 has elapsed, the holding state is set to the second holding state to provide resistance to shocks due to external forces.

[0118] Next, a case where the auto power off state is changed to the shooting preparation state will be described with reference to Fig. 15. In step S951, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the user has operated the operation member 80. If it is determined that the operation member 80 has not been operated and the auto power off state remains, the system control circuit 50 repeats this determination until the shooting preparation state is changed.

[0119] If it is determined in step S951 that the user has operated the operation member 80, the system control circuit 50 controls the power supply control circuit 86 in step S952 to change the state from the power saving state to the shooting preparation state.

[0120] In step S953, the system control circuit 50 determines the state stored in memory 52 in step S903. If the non-holding state is determined in step S953, the system control circuit 50 starts energizing the coil 243 in step S954, and further controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set the image sensor to the non-holding state in step S955. In step S956, the system control circuit 50 starts operation of the image stabilization unit 240, and ends the change of the holding state due to the change from the auto power off state.

[0121] If it is determined in step S953 that the image sensor is in the first holding state, then in step S957 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set the image sensor in the first holding state. If the image sensor is in the first holding state during the auto power off state, the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not changed and the process ends.

[0122] If it is determined in step S953 that the image sensor is in the second holding state, then in step S95 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to set the image sensor in the second holding state. If the image sensor is in the second holding state during the auto power off state, the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not changed and the process ends.

[0123] As described above, the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 before the auto power off state is entered is stored, and when the camera is ready to shoot, the stored state is restored, allowing the camera to return to shooting operation without any discomfort.

[0124] Next, an operation for changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 when removing dust or the like adhering to the surface of the image sensor 231 will be described.

[0125] Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation of the digital camera when the image sensor cleaning mode is set. The image sensor cleaning mode is a mode in which all of the mechanisms in front of the image sensor 231 are opened so that the user can clean the image sensor 231 manually or using equipment from outside the digital camera 100. The operation shown in Fig. 16 is started when the power of the digital camera 100 is set to ON.

[0126] In step S1001, the system control circuit 50 determines whether or not the image sensor cleaning mode has been set by the user operating the operation member 80. If it is determined that the image sensor cleaning mode has not been set, the system control circuit 50 repeats the determination until the image sensor cleaning mode is set.

[0127] If it is determined in step S1001 that the image sensor cleaning mode has been set, the system control circuit 50 determines the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in step S1002.

[0128] If it is determined in step S1002 that the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is in the non-held state, in step S1003 the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to enter the second held state. In step S1004 the system control circuit 50 stops the application of current to the coil 243, and ends the change in state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in the image sensor cleaning mode.

[0129] If the first holding state is determined in step S1002, the system control circuit 50 controls the image sensor lock mechanism 250 to enter the second holding state in step S1005, thereby completing the changing of the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 in the image sensor cleaning mode.

[0130] If it is determined in step S1002 that the second holding state is selected, the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not changed and the process ends.

[0131] As described above, when the image sensor cleaning mode is set, by setting the image sensor unit 230 to the second holding state, the position of the image sensor unit 230 is fixed even if an external force is applied during cleaning, thereby improving the ease of cleaning.

[0132] Although the 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 the gist of the present invention.

[0133] For example, the above-described examples of changing the state of the image sensor lock mechanism 250 may be performed in combination.

[0134] Furthermore, the image sensor lock mechanism 250 is not limited to the above-described structure. For example, it may have a structure in which the holding force when holding the image sensor unit 230 can be changed in stages and the power consumption when holding the image sensor unit 230 is less than the power consumption when the position of the image sensor unit 230 is fixed by the coil 243. [Explanation of symbols]

[0135] 50 System control circuit 52 Memory 56 Timer 58 Thermometer 80 Operating member 100 Digital Camera 200 Imaging unit 230 Image sensor unit 231 Image sensor 232 Image sensor holder 240 Image stabilization unit 250 Image sensor lock mechanism

Claims

1. An imaging element; a movable section that holds the image sensor and is movable in a direction perpendicular to an optical axis of the image sensor, a holding means arranged to be aligned with the movable part in the direction of the photographing optical axis, and capable of gradually switching a holding force when holding the movable part by moving forward and backward in the direction of the photographing optical axis; a control unit that controls a holding force of the holding unit when holding the movable unit in accordance with a state of the imaging device, An imaging device characterized in that the control means controls the imaging device to be in one of three states depending on the state of the imaging device: an unheld state in which the movable part is not held by the holding means, a first held state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a first holding force, or a second held state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a second holding force stronger than the first holding force.

2. 2. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the holding means is thermally connected to a housing or a heat transfer member.

3. 3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls a holding force of the holding means when holding the movable portion in accordance with a power consumption of the image pickup apparatus.

4. 4. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control means controls the image pickup apparatus so as to enter the first holding state when power consumption of the image pickup apparatus is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

5. A setting means for setting a mode of the imaging device, 3. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls a holding force of the holding means when the movable portion is held, in accordance with the mode set by the setting means.

6. The imaging device has a video capture mode, 6. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control means performs control so as to enter the first holding state when the moving image shooting mode is set by the setting means.

7. The imaging device has an imaging element cleaning mode, 7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control means performs control so as to enter the second holding state when the image sensor cleaning mode is set by the setting means.

8. A simultaneous recording mode for simultaneously recording the acquired image data on a plurality of recording media, 8. The imaging apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control means performs control so as to enter the first holding state when the simultaneous recording mode is set by the setting means.

9. A communication means for communicating with an external device is provided, 9. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls the imaging apparatus so that the imaging apparatus is in the first holding state when communicating with the external device through the communication means.

10. a measuring means for measuring a temperature of the imaging element; 10. The imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls a holding force of the holding means when holding the movable part, in accordance with the temperature of the imaging device measured by the measurement means.

11. 11. The image pickup apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the control means controls the image pickup apparatus to be in the first holding state when the temperature of the image pickup apparatus measured by the measurement means is equal to or higher than a predetermined value.

12. 12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control means controls the imaging apparatus so as to enter the second holding state when the imaging apparatus is changed from a power-on state to a power-off state.

13. The imaging device is capable of being switched to a power saving state, 13. The imaging apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control means controls a holding force of the holding means when holding the movable part in accordance with an elapsed time since the imaging apparatus was changed to a power saving state.

14. The imaging device according to claim 13, characterized in that the control means controls the imaging device to enter the first holding state when the elapsed time since the change to the power saving state is not equal to or greater than a predetermined time, and controls the imaging device to enter the second holding state when the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the predetermined time.

15. An imaging element; a movable section that holds the image sensor and is movable in a direction perpendicular to a photographing optical axis; a holding unit that is arranged to be aligned with the movable unit in a direction of the photographing optical axis and that is capable of gradually switching a holding force when holding the movable unit by moving the holding unit forward and backward in the direction of the photographing optical axis, A control method for an imaging device, characterized by controlling the holding force of the holding means when holding the movable part depending on the state of the imaging device so that the movable part is held in one of a non-holding state in which the movable part is not held by the holding means, a first holding state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a first holding force, and a second holding state in which the movable part is held by the holding means with a second holding force stronger than the first holding force.

Images